Air conditioner

ABSTRACT

An operational air conditioning mode is allowed to set to a temperature uniformization mode and a spot air conditioning mode, and is selectively switched between these modes automatically by a control means ( 53 ) or manually. In such an embodiment, a comfortably air-conditioned state is obtained in all the areas of a space to be air-conditioned W during air conditioning performed in the temperature uniformization mode, and the comfort is ensured by intensively air-conditioning the surroundings of a person during air conditioning performed in the spot air conditioning mode. At the same time, since an unnecessary air conditioning is not provided to a region without the presence of a person, energy conservation is improved, for example, and thus the comfort of air conditioning and energy conservation are both achieved.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to an air conditioning apparatusthat is provided with: an inlet located at the center of the bottom faceof an indoor unit; and a plurality of elongated rectangular outletslocated to surround the periphery of the inlet, and that is installedsuch that the indoor unit is embedded in or hung from a ceiling.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] For example, in order to provide air conditioning to a relativelylarge space to be air-conditioned such as a shop, a restaurant or anoffice in a building, an indoor unit of the type embedded in a ceilingor of the type hung from a ceiling has heretofore generally beendisposed at a ceiling located above the space to be air-conditioned.

[0003] In providing air conditioning to such a large space to beair-conditioned using an indoor unit of the type embedded in a ceilingor of the type hung from a ceiling, air flows have conventionally beendischarged uniformly from respective outlets of the indoor unit withoutgiving any thoughts to air conditioning requirement such as distributionof heat load or distribution of people within the space to beair-conditioned. This has been causing, for example, a problem thattemperature variations occur in the space to be air-conditioned tocreate an area inferior in comfort accompanied with draftiness, anotherproblem that an area without the presence of a person is air-conditionedas with an area with the presence of a person, and still another problemthat energy conservation is impaired because of the execution ofunnecessary and needless air conditioning as a result of, for example,always running an air conditioning apparatus under a predeterminedcondition even though the heat load distribution in the space to beair-conditioned varies with time depending on criteria such as season,time of day and the number of people present in a room.

[0004] Proposed solutions to these prior-art problems include: atechnique in which distribution of heat load or distribution of peoplein a space to be air-conditioned, for example, is detected, and based onthe detected information, the characteristic of an air flow dischargedthrough an outlet of an indoor unit, e.g., quantity of air discharge,temperature of air discharge, velocity of air discharge or direction ofair discharge, is appropriately controlled, thus performing airconditioning that achieves comfort at all times and accomplishesoutstanding energy conservation (see Japanese Unexamined PatentPublication No. 5-203244 and Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No.5-306829, for example); and another technique in which an infraredsensor is used as a means for detecting, for example, distribution ofheat load (see Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 5-20659, forexample).

Solution

[0005] However, although the proposed prior-art techniques describedabove as well-known examples are theoretically thought to providenecessary functionality and make the expected effects obtainable, thetechnical disclosures thereof are not implementable or not realistic,and therefore, the fact is that the above-described techniques are notyet brought into practical use. Accordingly, there is a strong demandthat practice of the above-described techniques be established andimplemented as soon as possible. In addition, a control mode suitablefor achievement of the comfort of air conditioning and energyconservation is likewise demanded.

[0006] Hence, the object of the present invention is to achieve both ofcomfort and energy conservation with the use of an air conditioningapparatus including: a detection means for detecting, for example, aheat load; an air flow changing means for changing the characteristic ofa discharged air flow; and a control means for the air flow changingmeans, by providing each of these means in more implementable andrealistic form to promote the practical use thereof and by providing acontrol mode of air conditioning suitable for improvement of comfort andenergy conservation.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

[0007] The present invention employs the following arrangements asimplementable solutions to the above-described problems.

[0008] A first invention is directed to an air conditioning apparatusincluding: an indoor panel 2 that is disposed at the bottom side of aceiling 50, and is provided with an inlet 3 and a plurality of outlets4, 4, . . . rectangularly surrounding the periphery of the inlet 3;detection means 51 including an infrared sensor 15 for detecting as aradiation temperature the temperature of an object in a space to beair-conditioned W; air flow changing means 52 for changing thecharacteristic of an air flow discharged from each of the outlets 4, 4,. . . ; and control means 53 for controlling the operation of the airflow changing means 52 based on detection information detected by thedetection means 51 and operation information concerning the operation ofthe air conditioning apparatus. Furthermore, an operational airconditioning mode of the air conditioning apparatus is selectivelyswitched between a temperature uniformization mode in which temperaturedistribution in the space to be air-conditioned W is uniformized, and aspot air conditioning mode in which the surroundings of a human body Mpresent in the space to be air-conditioned W are intensivelyair-conditioned, and the operational air conditioning mode is switchedautomatically by the control means 53 or manually.

[0009] In a second invention based on the first invention, theoperational air conditioning mode is switched automatically by thecontrol means 53. Furthermore, the space to be air-conditioned W isdivided into a plurality of areas, and the operational air conditioningmode is set to the temperature uniformization mode when it is detectedby the detection means 51 that the percentage of the area with thepresence of a human body M to the plurality of areas is above apredetermined level, while the operational air conditioning mode is setto the spot air conditioning mode when it is detected by the detectionmeans 51 that the percentage is below the predetermined level.

[0010] In a third invention based on the first invention, theoperational air conditioning mode is switched automatically by thecontrol means 53. Furthermore, the operational air conditioning mode isswitched to the temperature uniformization mode when it is detected bythe detection means 51 that the level of a load applied to the overallspace to be air-conditioned W is above a predetermined level, while theoperational air conditioning mode is switched to the spot airconditioning mode when it is detected by the detection means 51 that theload level is below the predetermined level.

[0011] In a fourth invention based on the first, second or thirdinvention, the operational air conditioning mode is continuously set tothe temperature uniformization mode during a predetermined time periodsubsequent to the start of air conditioning operation or the switchingof the operational air conditioning mode, and after the predeterminedtime has been elapsed, the control over the switching of the operationalair conditioning mode is carried out based on the detection informationdetected by the infrared sensor 15.

[0012] In a fifth invention based on the first, second or thirdinvention, the switching of the operational air conditioning mode isexecuted based on each time period of a day.

[0013] In a sixth invention based on the first, second, third, fourth orfifth invention, the control of air conditioning capacity is carried outbased on the temperature of radiation emitted from an object in apredetermined area which is detected by the detection means 51, and aset temperature that has been set in advance.

[0014] In a seventh invention based on the sixth invention, arecommendable set temperature is used instead of the set temperaturedepending on the load level detected by the detection means 51.

[0015] In an eighth invention based on the first, second, third, fourth,fifth, sixth or seventh invention, the detection means 51 furtherincludes, in addition to the infrared sensor 15, a temperature andhumidity sensor 16 for detecting the temperature of an intake air takeninto the inlet 3.

[0016] In a ninth invention based on the eighth invention, the infraredsensor 15 is formed to detect the position of a human body in the spaceto be air-conditioned W, and the temperature and humidity sensor 16 isformed to detect the temperature of an intake air.

[0017] In a tenth invention based on the ninth invention, a plurality ofthe temperature and humidity sensors 16 are provided so that eachtemperature and humidity sensor 16 detects the temperature of an intakeair from an associated one of the areas of the space to beair-conditioned W. Furthermore, the radiation temperature from each ofthe areas detected by the infrared sensor 15 and the intake airtemperature from each of the areas detected by the associated one of thetemperature and humidity sensors 16, 16, . . . are each assigned apredetermined weight and are summed to determine the measurementtemperature of each of the areas. In addition, the weight assignment tothe radiation temperature and the intake air temperature are made suchthat the weight assigned to the intake air temperature is increased inthe temperature uniformization mode, and the weight assigned to theradiation temperature is increased in the spot air conditioning mode.

[0018] In an eleventh invention based on the first, second, third,fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth or tenth invention, the airflow changing means 52 includes: an air quantity distribution mechanism10 for changing the ratio of distribution of air quantities dischargedfrom the outlets 4, 4, . . . ; a first flap 12 for changing the lateraldischarge direction of an air flow discharged from the associated outlet4; and a second flap 13 for changing the longitudinal dischargedirection of the air flow discharged from the associated outlet 4.Furthermore, the air quantity distribution mechanism 10, the first flap12 and the second flap 13 associated with each of the outlets 4, 4, . .. are formed so that they are operable independently and separately fromtheir counterparts.

[0019] In a twelfth invention based on the first, second, third, fourth,fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth or tenth invention, the air flowchanging means 52 includes: an air quantity distribution mechanism 10for changing the ratio of distribution of air quantities discharged fromthe outlets 4, 4, . . . ; a first flap 12 for changing the lateraldischarge direction of an air flow discharged from the associated outlet4; and a second flap 13 for changing the longitudinal dischargedirection of the air flow discharged from the associated outlet 4.Furthermore, the air quantity distribution mechanism 10 and the firstflap 12 associated with each of the outlets 4, 4, . . . are formed sothat they are operable independently and separately from theircounterparts. On the other hand, the second flap 13 associated with eachof the outlets 4, 4, . . . is formed to operate together with itscounterpart.

[0020] In a thirteenth invention based on the first, second, third,fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh or twelfthinvention, the air quantity distribution mechanism 10 and the first flap12 are each provided in an upstream region of a discharge duct 14continuous with the outlet 4. Furthermore, a driving mechanism 29 forthe air quantity distribution mechanism 10 and a driving mechanism 30for the first flap 12 are provided at respective longitudinal ends ofthe discharge duct 14.

[0021] In a fourteenth invention based on the thirteenth invention, theair quantity distribution mechanism 10 includes a distribution shutter11 attached so that the shutter 11 is allowed to assume a positionadjacent to a side wall of the discharge duct 14 extending in alongitudinal direction thereof, and to tilt toward an inward region ofthe discharge duct 14. Furthermore, the distribution shutter 11 isformed to assume a position adjacent to the longitudinally extendingside wall of the discharge duct 14 when the area of an opening of thedischarge duct 14 is increased, and to assume a position at an upstreamside region of the discharge duct 14 when the area of the opening isreduced.

EFFECTS OF INVENTION

[0022] The present invention achieves the following effects by employingthe above-described arrangements.

[0023] (A) According to the first invention, the operational airconditioning mode of the air conditioning apparatus is selectivelyswitched between the temperature uniformization mode in whichtemperature distribution in the space to be air-conditioned W isuniformized, and the spot air conditioning mode in which thesurroundings of a human body M present in the space to beair-conditioned W are intensively air-conditioned, and the operationalair conditioning mode is switched automatically by the control means 53or manually. Therefore, for example, in a situation where people arepresent evenly in the space to be air-conditioned W, air conditioning isperformed in the temperature uniformization mode, thus obtaining acomfortably air-conditioned state in all the areas of the space to beair-conditioned W.

[0024] Besides, in a situation where people are scattered in the spaceto be air-conditioned W, air conditioning is performed in the spot airconditioning mode to intensively air-condition the surroundings of thepeople, thus making it possible to ensure the comfort of airconditioning. At the same time, air conditioning is not provided to aregion without the presence of a person, i.e., needless and wasteful airconditioning is not provided, which improves energy conservation, forexample, thus achieving both of the comfort of air conditioning andenergy conservation.

[0025] Further, the first invention has an advantage that when theswitching of the operational air conditioning mode is automaticallyperformed by the control means 53, no complicated manipulation isrequired, thus carrying out operational control of the air conditioningapparatus with ease.

[0026] Furthermore, the first invention has another advantage that whenthe switching of the operational air conditioning mode is performedmanually, a person who directly enjoys the comfort of air conditioningin the space to be air-conditioned W not only achieves energyconservation and comfort but also can further improve the comfort byreflecting his or her own preference in the switching of the operationalair conditioning mode.

[0027] (B) According to the second invention, in addition to the effectsset forth in the section (A), the following unique effects are obtained.

[0028] In this invention directed to the air conditioning apparatus inwhich the operational air conditioning mode is switched automatically bythe control means 53, the space to be air-conditioned W is divided intoa plurality of areas, and the operational air conditioning mode is setto the temperature uniformization mode when it is detected by thedetection means 51 that the percentage of the area with the presence ofa human body M to the plurality of areas is above a predetermined level,while the operational air conditioning mode is set to the spot airconditioning mode when it is detected by the detection means 51 that thepercentage is below the predetermined level.

[0029] Therefore, during air conditioning performed in the temperatureuniformization mode, the temperatures of the plurality of areas areuniformized to allow all the people present in the plurality of areas toenjoy highly comfortable air conditioning.

[0030] On the other hand, during air conditioning performed in the spotair conditioning mode, only the area with the presence of a human body Mwhich is to be air-conditioned is intensively air-conditioned, thusobtaining the comfort of air conditioning in the area. At the same time,since needless air conditioning is not provided to the area without thepresence of a human body M, energy conservation is ensured, for example,thus achieving both of the comfort of air conditioning and energyconservation.

[0031] Furthermore, since the percentage of the area with the presenceof a human body M is employed as the criterion for switching theoperational air conditioning mode, the switching of the mode can becarried out based on whether or not there is the necessity for airconditioning, and thus it can be expected that the comfort of airconditioning and energy conservation will be further improved.

[0032] (C) According to the third invention, in addition to the effectsset forth in the section (A), the following unique effects are obtained.

[0033] In this invention directed to the air conditioning apparatus inwhich the operational air conditioning mode is switched automatically bythe control means 53, the operational air conditioning mode is switchedto the temperature uniformization mode when it is detected by thedetection means 51 that the level of a load applied to the overall spaceto be air-conditioned W is above a predetermined level, while theoperational air conditioning mode is switched to the spot airconditioning mode when it is detected by the detection means 51 that theload level is below the predetermined level.

[0034] Therefore, if the load level in the overall space to beair-conditioned W is above the predetermined level, i.e., if there is agreat demand that the temperature of the overall space to beair-conditioned W be increased or decreased, air conditioning is carriedout in the temperature uniformization mode, thus satisfying the demandand obtaining an outstanding comfort. On the other hand, airconditioning is carried out in the spot air conditioning mode if theload level in the overall space to be air-conditioned W is below thepredetermined level, i.e., if a demand for an intensive increase ordecrease in only the temperature of a specified region such as a regionwith the presence of a lot of people is greater than a demand for anincrease or decrease in the temperature of the overall space to beair-conditioned W. Accordingly, the immediate demand is satisfied toobtain an outstanding comfort, and at the same time, air conditioning isnot provided to the region in which there is a little necessity for airconditioning, thus promoting energy conservation, for example, andachieving both of the comfort of air conditioning and energyconservation.

[0035] (D) According to the fourth invention, in addition to the effectsset forth in the sections (A), (B) or (C), the following unique effectsare obtained.

[0036] In this invention, the operational air conditioning mode iscontinuously set to the temperature uniformization mode during apredetermined time period subsequent to the start of air conditioningoperation or the switching of the operational air conditioning mode, andafter the predetermined time period has been elapsed, the control overthe switching of the operational air conditioning mode is carried outbased on the detection information detected by the detection means 51.

[0037] Therefore, until the predetermined time period is elapsed, i.e.,until the operational state of the air conditioning apparatus isstabilized to a certain extent, air conditioning is performed in thetemperature uniformization mode in which the operation of each air flowchanging means 52, for example, provided to be associated with thecorresponding one of the outlets 4, 4, . . . is rarely changed. Afterthe operational state of the air conditioning apparatus has beenstabilized to a certain extent, air conditioning is performed in thespot air conditioning mode in which the operation of each air flowchanging means 52, for example, is often changed. Consequently, the airconditioning apparatus is stably operated, which eventually promotes thestabilization of the air conditioning characteristic, and thus it can beexpected that the comfort of air conditioning will be further improved.

[0038] (E) According to the fifth invention, in addition to the effectsset forth in the sections (A), (B) or (C), the following unique effectsare obtained.

[0039] In this invention, the switching of the operational airconditioning mode is executed based on each time period of a day. Forexample, when a restaurant is air-conditioned, air conditioning iscarried out in the temperature uniformization mode at mealtime duringwhich the number of guests is large and a heat load applied from akitchen is high, because at this time period there is a great demandthat comfort be ensured by uniformly air-conditioning the entire area ofthe restaurant. Air conditioning is carried out in the spot airconditioning mode at time periods other than mealtime, i.e., at the timeperiods during which the number of guests is a few and a heat loadapplied from the kitchen is low, because at these time periods there isa demand that only the area of the restaurant where a guest is presentbe intensively air-conditioned in consideration of both of comfort andenergy conservation. In this manner, air conditioning is carried out inaccordance with the load level that varies depending on each time periodof a day, thus making it possible to further improve the comfort of airconditioning and energy conservation.

[0040] (F) According to the sixth invention, in addition to the effectsset forth in the sections (A), (B), (C), (D) or (E), the followingunique effects are obtained.

[0041] In this invention, the control of air conditioning capacity iscarried out based on the temperature of radiation emitted from an objectin a predetermined area which is detected by the detection means 51, anda set temperature that has been set in advance.

[0042] Therefore, it can be expected that energy conservation will beimproved by avoiding the operation of the air conditioning apparatuswhich provides an excessive capacity in reducing the actual load levelin the space to be air-conditioned W, and it can also be expected thatthe comfort of air conditioning will be improved by avoiding theoperation of the air conditioning apparatus which provides aninsufficient capacity in reducing the load level.

[0043] (G) According to the seventh invention, in addition to theeffects set forth in the section (F), the following unique effects areobtained.

[0044] In this invention, a recommendable set temperature is usedinstead of the set temperature depending on the load level detected bythe detection means 51.

[0045] Therefore, when cooling operation is performed, the settemperature is normally set in accordance with the maximum load appliedduring the day time, and when heating operation is performed, the settemperature is set in accordance with the maximum load applied in theearly morning. Accordingly, in performing cooling operation and heatingoperation, the control of air conditioning capacity is carried out basedon the set temperature when the load level is high, and is carried outbased on the recommendable set temperature when the load level is low.As a result, needless air conditioning capacity is not provided, thusfurther improving energy conservation.

[0046] (H) According to the eighth invention, in addition to the effectsset forth in the sections (A), (B), (C), (D), (E), (F) or (G), thefollowing unique effects are obtained.

[0047] In this invention, the detection means 51 further includes, inaddition to the infrared sensor 15, a temperature and humidity sensor 16for detecting the temperature of an intake air taken into the inlet 3.Therefore, the radiation temperature detected by the infrared sensor 15,for example, is corrected using the temperature of an intake airdetected by the temperature and humidity sensor 16, and the correctedvalue is employed as the average temperature of the space to beair-conditioned W.

[0048] Thus, the reliability of the average temperature of the space tobe air-conditioned W is improved compared with the case where theaverage temperature of the space to be air-conditioned W is calculatedbased on the value detected by the infrared sensor 15, the control ofair conditioning capacity carried out based on the average temperatureis eventually improved in reliability, and it can be expected thatenergy conservation in air conditioning will be further improvedaccordingly.

[0049] (I) According to the ninth invention, in addition to the effectsset forth in the section (H), the following unique effects are obtained.

[0050] In this invention, the infrared sensor 15 is formed to detect theposition of a human body in the space to be air-conditioned W, and thetemperature and humidity sensor 16 is formed to detect the temperatureof an intake air.

[0051] Therefore, since the infrared sensor 15 is required to detectonly the human body position, the processing of information detected bythe infrared sensor 15 can be performed with ease and the control systemcan be accordingly simplified compared with the case where the infraredsensor 15 detects, for example, both of the human body position andtemperature distribution inside a room. At the same time, the requiredprecision can be ensured in detecting the temperature distributioninside the room with the use of the temperature sensor or thetemperature and humidity sensor 16 that is less expensive than theinfrared sensor 15. Due to a synergistic effect obtained by the use ofthese sensors, the ensuring of accuracy in detection information andcost reduction are both achieved.

[0052] (J) According to the tenth invention, in addition to the effectsset forth in the section (I), the following unique effects are obtained.

[0053] In this invention, a plurality of the temperature and humiditysensors 16 are provided so that each temperature and humidity sensor 16detects the temperature of an intake air from an associated one of theareas of the space to be air-conditioned W, and the radiationtemperature from each of the areas detected by the infrared sensor 15and the intake air temperature from each of the areas detected by theassociated one of the temperature and humidity sensors 16, 16, . . . areeach assigned a predetermined weight and summed to determine themeasurement temperature of each of the areas. The weight assignment tothe radiation temperature and the intake air temperature are made suchthat the weight assigned to the intake air temperature is increased inthe temperature uniformization mode, and the weight assigned to theradiation temperature is increased in the spot air conditioning mode.

[0054] Therefore, when air conditioning is performed in the temperatureuniformization mode, it is allowed to eliminate, to the extent possible,an error caused by an unusual detection value that is detected by theinfrared sensor 15 due to variations in the rate of heat radiation of anobject, and thus the air conditioning apparatus is controlled using themeasurement temperature obtained mainly based on the intake airtemperature detected by the temperature and humidity sensor 16, i.e.,the reliable temperature that is unlikely to be an unusual detectionvalue. On the other hand, when air conditioning is performed in the spotair conditioning mode, the air conditioning apparatus is controlledusing the measurement temperature obtained mainly based on the radiationtemperature of a human body that needs an intensive air conditioning,thus realizing more comfortable air conditioning.

[0055] (K) In the air conditioning apparatus according to the eleventhinvention, in addition to the effects set forth in the sections (A),(B), (C), (D), (E), (F), (G), (H), (I) or (J), the following uniqueeffects are obtained.

[0056] In this invention based on the first, second, third, fourth,fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth or tenth invention, the air flowchanging means 52 is formed to include: an air quantity distributionmechanism 10 for changing the ratio of distribution of air quantitiesdischarged from the outlets 4, 4, . . . ; a first flap 12 for changingthe lateral discharge direction of an air flow discharged from theassociated outlet 4; and a second flap 13 for changing the longitudinaldischarge direction of the air flow discharged from the associatedoutlet 4, and the air quantity distribution mechanism 10, the first flap12 and the second flap 13 associated with each of the outlets 4, 4, . .. are formed so that they are operable independently and separately fromtheir counterparts.

[0057] Therefore, the characteristic of an air flow discharged from eachof the outlets 4, 4, . . . can be minutely controlled, and the comfortof air conditioning and energy conservation are further improvedaccordingly.

[0058] (L) In the air conditioning apparatus according to the twelfthinvention, in addition to the effects set forth in the sections (A),(B), (C), (D), (E), (F), (G), (H), (I) or (J), the following uniqueeffects are obtained.

[0059] In this invention based on the first, second, third, fourth,fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth or tenth invention, the air flowchanging means 52 is formed to include: an air quantity distributionmechanism 10 for changing the ratio of distribution of air quantitiesdischarged from the outlets 4, 4, . . . ; a first flap 12 for changingthe lateral discharge direction of an air flow discharged from theassociated outlet 4; and a second flap 13 for changing the longitudinaldischarge direction of the air flow discharged from the associatedoutlet 4, and the air quantity distribution mechanism 10 and the firstflap 12 associated with each of the outlets 4, 4, . . . are formed sothat they are operable independently and separately from theircounterparts; on the other hand, the second flap 13 associated with eachof the outlets 4, 4, . . . is formed to operate together with itscounterpart.

[0060] Therefore, in the air conditioning apparatus according to thepresent invention, the characteristic of an air flow discharged fromeach of the outlets 4, 4, . . . can be minutely controlled by the airquantity distribution mechanism 10 and the first flap 12. This improvesthe comfort of air conditioning and energy conservation compared withthe arrangement in which the air quantity distribution mechanism 10 andthe first flap 12 associated with each the outlets 4, 4, . . . areoperated together with their counterparts, for example. Furthermore, thesecond flaps 13, 13, . . . each provided in the associated one of theoutlets 4, 4, . . . can be driven by using a single driving source.Consequently, compared with the case where the second flaps 13, 13, . .. are driven by separate driving sources, for example, the cost andstructural complexity of the air conditioning apparatus can be reducedby the decrease in the number of the driving sources to be provided,which enables not only the improvement in the comfort of airconditioning and energy conservation but also the promotion of costreduction for the air conditioning apparatus.

[0061] (M) According to the thirteenth invention, in addition to theeffects set forth in the sections (A), (B), (C), (D), (E), (F), (G),(H), (I), (J), (K) or (L), the following unique effects are obtained.

[0062] In this invention based on the first, second, third, fourth,fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh, or twelfthinvention, the air quantity distribution mechanism 10 and the first flap12 are each provided in an upstream region of a discharge duct 14continuous with the outlet 4, and a driving mechanism 29 for the airquantity distribution mechanism 10 and a driving mechanism 30 for thefirst flap 12 are provided at respective longitudinal ends of thedischarge duct 14.

[0063] Therefore, the air quantity distribution mechanism 10, the firstflap 12 and the driving mechanisms 29 and 30 thereof are compactlyprovided in the region of the discharge duct 14 having a restrictedspace. As a result, the indoor panel 2 can be reduced in thickness,i.e., size.

[0064] (N) According to the fourteenth invention, in addition to theeffects set forth in the section (M), the following unique effects areobtained.

[0065] In this invention based on the thirteenth invention, the airquantity distribution mechanism 10 includes a distribution shutter 11attached so that the shutter 11 is allowed to assume a position adjacentto a side wall of the discharge duct 14 extending in a longitudinaldirection thereof, and to tilt toward an inward region of the dischargeduct 14. The distribution shutter 11 is formed to assume a positionadjacent to the longitudinally extending side wall of the discharge duct14 when the area of an opening of the discharge duct 14 is increased,and to assume a position at an upstream side region of the dischargeduct 14 when the area of the opening is reduced.

[0066] Therefore, when the opening area of the discharge duct 14 isincreased, i.e., when the quantity of air discharge is increased, thedistribution shutter 11 assumes a position at the region of thedischarge duct 14 where the velocity of flow is low, so as to reducedraft resistance caused by the distribution shutter 11, thus ensuringair quantity with certainty and reducing noise due to a blown air. Onthe other hand, when the opening area of the discharge duct 14 isreduced, i.e., the quantity of air discharge is reduced, thedistribution shutter 11 assumes a position at the upstream side regionof the discharge duct 14, thus suppressing, to the extent possible, thedisturbance of an air flow at a region of the outlet 4 located at thedownstream side end of the discharge duct 14. As a result, it is allowedto prevent condensation from occurring at a portion of the indoor panel2 adjacent to the outlet 4, and contamination from occurring at aceiling surface due to the collision of the disturbed discharged airflow thereto.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0067]FIG. 1 is an oblique view of an indoor unit of an air conditioningapparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention, asviewed from the inside of a room.

[0068]FIG. 2 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a principal portionof the indoor unit shown in FIG. 1.

[0069]FIG. 3 is an oblique view of an indoor unit of an air conditioningapparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention, asviewed from the inside of a room.

[0070]FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a principal portionof the indoor unit shown in FIG. 3.

[0071]FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a first exemplarystructure of an air quantity distribution mechanism provided in anoutlet of an indoor unit.

[0072]FIG. 6 is a section view taken along the arrow VI-VI shown in FIG.5.

[0073]FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a second exemplarystructure of an air quantity distribution mechanism provided in anoutlet of an indoor unit.

[0074]FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a third exemplarystructure of an air quantity distribution mechanism provided in anoutlet of an indoor unit.

[0075]FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating a first method fordriving second flaps provided in outlets of an indoor unit.

[0076]FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a second method fordriving second flaps provided in outlets of an indoor unit.

[0077]FIG. 11 is a flow chart illustrating the first half of the processof control in a first exemplary operational control for an overall airconditioning apparatus including an indoor unit.

[0078]FIG. 12 is a flow chart illustrating the latter half of theprocess of control in the first exemplary operational control for anoverall air conditioning apparatus including an indoor unit.

[0079]FIG. 13 is a flow chart illustrating the first half of the processof control in a second exemplary operational control for an overall airconditioning apparatus including an indoor unit.

[0080]FIG. 14 is a flow chart illustrating the latter half of theprocess of control in the second exemplary operational control for anoverall air conditioning apparatus including an indoor unit.

[0081]FIG. 15 is a flow chart illustrating the first half of the processof control in a third exemplary operational control for an overall airconditioning apparatus including an indoor unit.

[0082]FIG. 16 is a flow chart illustrating the latter half of theprocess of control in the third exemplary operational control for anoverall air conditioning apparatus including an indoor unit.

[0083]FIG. 17 is a flow chart illustrating the first half of the processof control in a fourth exemplary operational control for an overall airconditioning apparatus including an indoor unit.

[0084]FIG. 18 is a flow chart illustrating the latter half of theprocess of control in the fourth exemplary operational control for anoverall air conditioning apparatus including an indoor unit.

[0085]FIG. 19 is a flow chart illustrating the first half of the processof control in a fifth exemplary operational control for an overall airconditioning apparatus including an indoor unit.

[0086]FIG. 20 is a flow chart illustrating the latter half of theprocess of control in the fifth exemplary operational control for anoverall air conditioning apparatus including an indoor unit.

[0087]FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating exemplary areas to beair-conditioned inside a room.

[0088]FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating another exemplary areas to beair-conditioned inside a room.

[0089]FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram illustrating how air conditioningis performed in a temperature uniformization mode.

[0090]FIG. 24 is a schematic diagram illustrating how air conditioningis performed in a spot air conditioning mode.

[0091]FIG. 25 is a graph illustrating the relationship between settemperature and recommendable set temperature during cooling operation.

[0092]FIG. 26 is a graph illustrating the relationship between settemperature and recommendable set temperature during heating operation.

[0093]FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary operation for theautomatic adjustment of recommendable set temperature.

[0094]FIG. 28 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary setting of anoperational air conditioning mode for each time period of a day.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0095] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detailbased on preferred embodiments thereof

I: First Embodiment of Air Conditioning Apparatus

[0096]FIGS. 1 and 2 show an indoor unit Z of a separate type airconditioning apparatus as the first embodiment of an air conditioningapparatus according the present invention. The indoor unit Z is aceiling-embedded type indoor unit embedded in a ceiling 50 above theinside of a room, and has a basic structure similar to a conventionallyknown one. Specifically, the indoor unit Z includes: a rectangularboxlike casing 1 embedded in the ceiling 50 so that the casing 1 islocated above the ceiling 50; and a rectangular flat-shaped indoor panel2 that is placed at an opening of a lower end of the casing 1 from theinside of the room. The indoor panel 2 is provided at its center with aninlet 3 formed by a rectangular opening. Provided outwardly of the inlet3 are four outlets 4, 4, . . . that are formed by elongated rectangularopenings so as to rectangularly surround the inlet 3, and that are eachextended substantially parallel to an associated outer edge of theindoor panel 2.

[0097] Further, the casing 1 is provided, at its inner space extendingfrom the inlet 3 to each of the outlets 4, 4, . . . , with an airpassage 17 in which a centrifugal fan 6 is located coaxially with theinlet 3, and a heat exchanger 5 is located outwardly of the fan 6 so asto surround this. Furthermore, a bell mouth 7 is provided at the suctionside of the fan 6, and a filter 9 and a suction grill 8 are placed inthe inlet 3.

[0098] On the other hand, provided upstream of the outlet 4 is adischarge duct 14 having an elongated cross section continuous with theoutlet 4 and extending upward to form a downstream-side region of theair passage 17. Provided in the discharge duct 14 are an air quantitydistribution mechanism 10, a first flap 12 and a second flap 13 that aredescribed later. It should be noted that the air quantity distributionmechanism 10, first flap 12 and second flap 13 constitute an “air flowchanging means 52” recited in the claims.

[0099] In addition, provided at a portion of the indoor panel 2 locatedbetween the openings of the outlets 4, 4, . . . is an infrared sensor 15that constitutes a “detection means 51” recited in the claims. Locatedadjacent to the discharge duct 14 is a controller 18 (equivalent to“control means 53” recited in the claims) for controlling, upon receiptof detection information from the infrared sensor 15, the operations ofthe air quantity distribution mechanism 10, first flap 12 and secondflap 13 of the air flow changing means 52, for example.

[0100] First, the specific configuration of each of the above-mentionedconstituting elements will be described.

(I-a) Configuration of Air Quantity Distribution Mechanism 10

[0101] The air quantity distribution mechanism 10 serves to increase ordecrease the quantity of an air discharged through the associated outlet4, thereby adjusting the ratio of distribution of air quantities fromthe outlets 4, 4, . . . . As shown in FIGS. 5 through 7, the airquantity distribution mechanism 10 includes right and left distributionshutters 11, 11 that are provided to make a pair at regions of thedischarge duct 14 adjacent to side walls thereof each extending in alongitudinal direction of the discharge duct 14, with the shuttersfacing each other in a transverse direction of the discharge duct 14.The specific configuration of the pair of distribution shutters 11, 11is as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. Guide grooves 25 are formed to extendvertically along the side walls of the discharge duct 14, and one endsof the pair of distribution shutters 11, 11 can be moved verticallyalong the guide grooves 25 by engaging said one ends thereto. The otherends of the pair of the distribution shutters 11, 11 are connected to apair of racks 27, 27 that mesh with a gear 28, which is driven androtated by a motor 29 (equivalent to “driving mechanism 29” recited inthe claim), on both sides of the gear 28 in a radial direction thereofwith the shaft of the gear 28 sandwiched between the pair of racks 27,27.

[0102] Therefore, in the air quantity distribution mechanism 10, uponselective rotation of the gear 28 in either a forward or reversedirection by the motor 29, the paired racks 27, 27 meshed with the gear28 are moved in opposite directions. With the movement of the pairedracks 27, 27 in opposite directions, the paired distribution shutters11, 11 move vertically while changing their tilt angles so as toincrease or decrease the degree of protrusion toward the center of thedischarge duct 14, thereby decreasing or increasing the area of anopening of the discharge duct 14.

[0103] When the opening area of the discharge duct 14 is increased bythe air quantity distribution mechanism 10 (i.e., when the air quantityis set at “large”), the paired distribution shutters 11, 11 each assumea substantially upright position and retract toward the associated sidewall of the discharge duct 14, thus reducing the degree of protrusiontoward the center of the discharge duct 14. On the other hand, when theopening area of the discharge duct 14 is reduced by the air quantitydistribution mechanism 10 (i.e., when the air quantity is set at“small”), the paired distribution shutters 11, 11 each assume asubstantially horizontal position to increase the degree of protrusiontoward the center of the discharge duct 14, and the air quantitydistribution mechanism 10 is overall placed at an upstream-side regionof the discharge duct 14.

[0104] Accordingly, by adopting the above-described configuration, whilethe opening area of the discharge duct 14 is increased, i.e., while thequantity of an air discharge is increased, each distribution shutter 11is placed at a region of the discharge duct 14 where the velocity offlow is low; thus, draft resistance caused by the distribution shutter11 is reduced, the air quantity is ensured with certainty, and the noiseproduced when an air is sent is reduced. On the other hand, while theopening area of the discharge duct 14 is reduced, i.e., while thequantity of an air discharge is reduced, each distribution shutter 11 isplaced at the upstream-side region of the discharge duct 14; thus, thedisturbance of an air flow at a region of the outlet 4 located at thedownstream end of the discharge duct 14 is suppressed as much aspossible. This makes it possible to obtain tremendous effects such asthe prevention of condensation in the vicinity of the outlet 4, and theprevention of contamination of the ceiling surface due to the collisionof a disturbed discharged air flow thereto.

[0105] It should be noted that since each air quantity distributionmechanism 10 is provided to be associated with the corresponding one ofthe outlets 4, 4, . . . , the operations of the air quantitydistribution mechanisms 10, 10, . . . are controlled independently andseparately. Besides, the operation of each air quantity distributionmechanism 10 is controlled by the after-mentioned controller 18 (theconfiguration of which will be described later) based on detectioninformation from the after-mentioned infrared sensor 15.

[0106] Meanwhile, as described above, each air quantity distributionmechanism 10 includes the distribution shutter 11 that tilts by using,as a supporting point, one end thereof located adjacent to theassociated side wall of the discharge duct 14 and movable in a flowdirection in the discharge duct 14. In addition, when the area of theopening is increased, each distribution shutter 11 assumes a positionadjacent to the associated side wall of the discharge duct 14 so as toensure a wide opening in the vicinity of the center of the duct wherethe velocity of flow is high. In other words, each distribution shutter11 is retracted toward the associated side wall of the discharge duct14. On the other hand, when the area of the opening is reduced, each airquantity distribution mechanism 10 has configurative and functionalfeatures that each distribution shutter 11 is placed at theupstream-side region of the discharge duct 14. As a consequence, theunique effects can be provided as described below.

[0107] The air quantity distribution mechanism 10 does not have to belimited to the structure as in the aforementioned embodiment so long asthe above-described configurative and functional features are provided.Therefore, other than the aforementioned embodiment, the structure shownin FIG. 7 or the structure shown in FIG. 8, for example, can be employedwhen deemed appropriate. These structures will be briefly describedbelow.

[0108] The air quantity distribution mechanism 10 shown in FIG. 7 isconfigured so that the paired distribution shutters 11, 11 are eachmovable to and fro in a transverse direction of the discharge duct 14 atits upstream region. The distribution shutters 11, 11 are driven by themotor 29 via the racks 27 and the gear 28 meshed therewith in the sameway as those of the aforementioned air quantity distribution mechanism10 shown in FIG. 3. Also in the air quantity distribution mechanism 10shown in FIG. 7, when the area of the opening is increased, thedistribution shutters 11, 11 each assume a position adjacent to theassociated side wall of the discharge duct 14 so as to ensure a wideopening in the vicinity of the center of the duct where the velocity offlow is high. On the other hand, when the area of the opening isreduced, each distribution shutter 11 is placed at the upstream-sideregion of the discharge duct 14.

[0109] The air quantity distribution mechanism 10 shown in FIG. 8includes a single distribution shutter 11 with one end thereof tiltablypivoted at the upstream-side region of the discharge duct 14 locatedadjacent to one side wall of the discharge duct 14, and the distributionshutter 11 is driven and rotated by a motor 35 via gear 33 and gear 34that mesh with each other. The air quantity distribution mechanism 10 isallowed to selectively assume a position, indicated by the solid line inFIG. 8, for increasing the area of opening, and another position,indicated by the broken line in FIG. 8, for reducing the area ofopening. Also in the air quantity distribution mechanism 10 shown inFIG. 8, when the area of the opening is increased, the distributionshutter 11 assumes a position adjacent to the side wall of the dischargeduct 14 to ensure a wide opening in the vicinity of the center of theduct where the velocity of flow is high; on the other hand, when thearea of the opening is reduced, the distribution shutter 11 is placed atthe upstream-side region of the discharge duct 14.

(I-b) Configuration of First Flap 12

[0110] The first flap 12 serves to adjust the lateral dischargedirection of an air flow that is discharged from the outlet 4 to theinside of the room after having passing through the discharge duct 14.As shown in FIG. 2, the first flap 12 is formed to have a geometry of aplate extending along the cross-sectional shape of the duct from thedischarge duct 14 to the discharge duct 14, and is supported by asupporting shaft 23 so as to be swingable with respect to the side wallsof the discharge duct 14 extending in the longitudinal direction thereofAs shown in FIG. 6, a plurality of the first flaps 12 are provided inthe discharge duct 14 so as to be spaced a certain distance apart in thelongitudinal direction thereof, and are each driven in a swingabledirection by a motor 30 (equivalent to “driving mechanism 30” recited inthe claims) via a link bar 24 that connects the first flaps 12 to eachother, thereby changing tilt angles thereof The first flaps 12 adjustthe lateral discharge direction of an air flow discharged from theoutlet 4 by having their tilt angles changed, and are allowed to swingby having their tilt angles increased and decreased continuously ifnecessary. Furthermore, the first flaps 12, 12, . . . are provided inthe associated outlets 4, 4, . . . . The operations of the first flaps12, 12, . . . are controlled separately and independently, or togetherby the controller 18.

[0111] In this embodiment, as described above, the air quantitydistribution mechanism 10 and the first flaps 12 are provided at theupstream-side region of the discharge duct 14 continuous with the outlet4, and the driving mechanism 29 for the air quantity distributionmechanism 10 and the driving mechanism 30 for the first flaps 12 areprovided at respective longitudinal ends of the discharge duct 14. Byemploying this arrangement, the air quantity distribution mechanism 10,first flaps 12, and driving mechanisms 29, 30 for driving them can becompactly provided in the region of the discharge duct 14 on whichspatial restrictions are imposed, resulting in the thin and small-sizedindoor panel 2.

(I-c) Second Flap 13

[0112] As shown in FIG. 2, each second flap 13 is formed by a band platemember having a curved cross-sectional shape. Each second flap 13 isprovided at a downstream-side region of the discharge duct 14 locatedadjacent to the outlet 4, is allowed to adjust longitudinal dischargedirection of an air flow by tilting around an upper edge thereof, and isallowed to swing by having its tilt angle increased and decreasedcontinuously if necessary.

[0113] Each second flap 13 is provided in the associated one of theoutlets 4, 4, . . . , and as a method for driving the second flaps 13,13, . . . , a method for driving the flaps together and a method fordriving the flaps separately are conceivable. As shown in FIG. 9, in themethod for driving the flaps together, the second flaps 13, 13, . . .provided in the corresponding outlets 4, 4, . . . are connected to eachother via interlocking members 32, 32 . . . , and the second flaps 13,13, . . . are driven by a single motor 31. To the contrary, as shown inFIG. 10, in the method for driving the flaps separately, the secondflaps 13, 13, . . . provided in the corresponding outlets 4, 4, . . .are driven separately by motors 31, 31, . . . each used exclusively forthe associated one of the second flaps 13, 13, . . . . If these methodsare compared to each other, the former method, i.e., the method fordriving the flaps together, is advantageous in that the structure of thedriving mechanism is simple and thus the cost thereof is reduced sincethe flaps can be driven by the single motor 31. To the contrary, thelatter method, i.e., the method for driving the flaps separately, isadvantageous in that the longitudinal discharge directions of air flowsdischarged from the outlets 4, 4, . . . can be separately and minutelyadjusted.

(I-d) Operational Relationship between Constituting Elements of Air FlowChanging Means 52

[0114] The present embodiment proposes the following two configurationsconcerning the operational relationship between the air quantitydistribution mechanism 10, first flaps 12, and second flap 13 thatconstitute each air flow changing means 52.

[0115] In a first configuration, the air quantity distributionmechanisms 10, first flaps 12 and second flaps 13 associated with therespective outlets 4, 4, . . . are formed so that they are operableindependently and separately. According to this operationalconfiguration, the characteristics of air flows discharged from theoutlets 4, 4, . . . can be minutely controlled, for example, with theair quantity distribution mechanisms 10, which is effective in improvingthe comfort of air conditioning and energy conservation.

[0116] In a second configuration, among the air quantity distributionmechanisms 10, first flaps 12 and second flaps 13, the air quantitydistribution mechanisms 10 and first flaps 12 associated with therespective outlets 4, 4, . . . are formed so that they are operableindependently and separately, while the second flaps 13 associated withthe respective outlets 4, 4, . . . are operated together. According tothis operational configuration, the characteristics of air flowsdischarged from the outlets 4, 4, . . . can be minutely controlled bythe air quantity distribution mechanisms 10 and the first flaps 12.Thus, as compared with the configuration in which the air quantitydistribution mechanisms 10 and the first flaps 12 provided in theassociated outlets 4, 4, . . . are operated together, for example, thecomfort of air conditioning and energy conservation can be improved, andthe second flaps 13, 13, . . . provided in the outlets 4, 4, . . . canbe driven by a single driving source. Therefore, as compared with thecase where the second flaps 13, 13, . . . are driven by separate drivingsources, for example, the number of the driving sources to be providedis reduced, and the cost and structural complexity thereof can beaccordingly reduced. That is, the improvement in the comfort of airconditioning and energy conservation, and the promotion of costreduction of the air conditioning apparatus are both achieved.

(I-e) Configuration of Infrared Sensor 15

[0117] The infrared sensor 15 is equivalent to “detection means 51”recited in the claims. If the indoor unit Z has been provided at theceiling 50, the infrared sensor 15 detects the radiation temperature ofan object such as a wall surface, floor surface or human body inside theroom (equivalent to “space to be air-conditioned W” recited in theclaims), outputs the detected temperature to the controller 18 as a roomtemperature, and outputs information on a high radiation temperatureregion to the controller 18 as information concerning the position of ahuman body. The controller 18 utilizes these pieces of information asfactors for controlling the air flow changing means 52.

[0118] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the infrared sensor 15 is provided atone of four corners of an outer region of the indoor panel 2, i.e., at aregion of the indoor panel 2 located between two of the four openings ofthe outlets 4, 4, . . . . In this case, according to the presentembodiment, the infrared sensor 15 is mounted to the panel via ascanning mechanism 20, thus enabling the scanning and detection of bodytemperature in all the areas inside the room with the use of this singleinfrared sensor 15. It should be noted that the scanning mechanism 20 isformed to oscillate the infrared sensor 15 by a first motor 21 having ahorizontal shaft and to rotate the infrared sensor 15 by a second motor22 having a vertical shaft, and allows the infrared sensor 15 to besupported by the casing 1 with the infrared sensor 15 inserted into asensor mounting hole 19 provided in the indoor panel 2.

[0119] In this embodiment, suitable for the infrared sensor 15 is, forexample, a sensor of the type in which a single element is provided tocarry out detection in a limited area of a detection target range, asensor of the type in which elements are one-dimensionally arrayed tocarry out detection in respective areas of a detection target rangedivided in one direction, or a sensor of the type in which elements aretwo-dimensionally arrayed to carry out detection in respective areas ofa detection target range divided in two orthogonal directions.

[0120] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, when body temperature(i.e., radiation temperature) and temperature distribution inside theroom are detected by the infrared sensor 15, the space inside the room,i.e., the detection target space (space to be air-conditioned W recitedin the claims) for the infrared sensor 15, is imaginarily divided intofour areas (1) through (4) along radial directions with respect to theindoor unit Z so that the areas (1) through (4) are each associated withthe position of the corresponding one of the outlets 4, 4, . . . (seeFIG. 21). The radiation temperature and human body position are detectedin each of the areas (1) through (4), and then information detected ineach of the areas (1) through (4) is outputted to the controller 18.

(I-f) Controller 18

[0121] As described above, the controller 18 controls, based on theinformation detected by the infrared sensor 15, the operations of theair quantity distribution mechanism 10, first flaps 12 and second flap13 constituting the air flow changing means 52 while associating theconstituting elements with each other, and simultaneously carries outcontrol of air conditioning capacity or temperature control to optimizethe air conditioning, thus making it possible to improve the comfort ofair conditioning or energy conservation.

[0122] How the controller 18 carries out control will be described insummary by providing several exemplary controls, subsequent to thefollowing description made about a second embodiment of an airconditioning apparatus.

II: Second Embodiment of Air Conditioning Apparatus

[0123]FIGS. 3 and 4 show an indoor unit Z of a separate type airconditioning apparatus as the second embodiment of an air conditioningapparatus according to the present invention. This indoor unit Z issimilar in basic configuration to the indoor unit Z according to thefirst embodiment, and is different from the indoor unit Z according tothe first embodiment in that the indoor unit Z of the present embodimentis provided with not only the infrared sensor 15 but also anafter-mentioned temperature and humidity sensor 16 as the detectionmeans 51, since the indoor unit Z of the first embodiment is providedwith only the infrared sensor 15 as the detection means 51.

[0124] Therefore, only the configuration of the temperature and humiditysensor 16 and the arrangement related to this sensor will be describedbelow, and the appropriate descriptions in the first embodiment will bereferenced as for the other configurations and arrangements. It shouldbe noted that the constituting members shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 andsimilar to the counterparts described in the first embodiment areidentified by the same reference characters as those used in FIGS. 1 and2.

[0125] In the indoor unit Z of the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS.3 and 4, the infrared sensor 15 is provided at a region of the indoorpanel 2 located between the openings of two of the outlets 4, 4, . . . ,and is configured to allow scanning with the scanning mechanism 20. Onthe other hand, the three temperature and humidity sensors 16 areprovided in the vicinity of each peripheral side of the inlet 3 so thatthey are spaced a certain distance apart along the peripheral side, andthus the twelve temperature and humidity sensors 16 are provided intotal. Each of the temperature and humidity sensors 16, 16, . . . isassociated with the corresponding one of the outlets 4, 4, . . . , andis associated with the corresponding one of the four areas (1) through(4) that are divided as the detection areas for the infrared sensor 15.Therefore, the temperature and humidity sensors 16, 16, . . . detect,for each of the areas (1) through (4), the temperature of each intakeair (i.e., intake air temperature) that is taken into the inlet 3 from aregion of the space belonging to one of the areas (1) through (4).

[0126] Consequently, the infrared sensor 15 detects the radiationtemperature and the human body position in each of the areas (1) through(4) of the space to be air-conditioned W, and the temperature andhumidity sensors 16 each detect the intake air temperature correspondingto the air temperature in the associated one of the areas (1) through(4) of the space to be air-conditioned W Furthermore, theabove-described detection method is significantly different from thedetection method of the first embodiment in which the radiationtemperature and human body position in each of the areas (1) through (4)are detected only by the infrared sensor 15.

[0127] In addition, if the detection means 51 is configured to includethe infrared sensor 15 and temperature and humidity sensor 16 as in thepresent embodiment, the following two usages of the sensors areconceivable.

[0128] In a first usage, the infrared sensor 15 and the temperature andhumidity sensor 16 are allowed to carry out respective functions, andthe infrared sensor 15 detects only human body position while thetemperature and humidity sensor 16 detects intake air temperature.According to this usage, the infrared sensor 15 needs only detect humanbody position; therefore, as compared with the case where human bodyposition and radiation temperature are both detected, for example, thedetected information is processed more easily and the control system canbe simplified accordingly. At the same time, required accuracy can beensured in detecting temperature distribution inside the room bydetecting intake air temperature with the temperature and humiditysensor 16 that is less expensive than the infrared sensor 15. Due to asynergistic effect of these merits, this usage is advantageous in thataccuracy of the detected information and cost reduction can be bothsecured. It should be noted that the description of the first usage isomitted in exemplary controls.

[0129] In a second usage, the infrared sensor 15 detects radiationtemperature and human body position, while the temperature and humiditysensor 16 detects intake air temperature. Furthermore, in this case,temperature correction is carried out. To be more specific, theradiation temperature detected by the infrared sensor 15, and the intakeair temperature detected by the temperature and humidity sensor 16 areeach assigned a predetermined weight and are summed to determine a valueindicative of a measurement temperature, thus reflecting both of theradiation temperature and intake air temperature in control. It shouldbe noted that this second usage is employed in a fourth exemplarycontrol described below.

[0130] It should also be noted that the three temperature and humiditysensors 16 are provided for each outlet 4 in the present embodimentbecause an increase in the number of the temperature and humiditysensors 16 to be provided enables further fragmentation of the detectiontarget range and thus improves detection accuracy. Therefore, the numberof the temperature and humidity sensors 16 to be provided may beappropriately increased or decreased in accordance with the requireddetection accuracy. For example, an arrangement in which one temperatureand humidity sensor 16 is provided for each of the outlets 4, 4, . . .may also be allowed since the detected information for each of the areas(1) through (4) can be at least confirmed.

[0131] Besides, in the present embodiment, each temperature and humiditysensor 16 is provided in the suction grill 8 (i.e., upstream of thefilter 9). This is because such an arrangement avoids leveling off ofintake air temperatures caused by the passage of the intake airs throughthe filter 9, and thus prevents the determination of the relationshipbetween the information detected by each temperature and humidity sensor16 and the detection target area from becoming difficult. Therefore, ifa draft resistance due to the filter 9 is small and the influence ofleveling off of intake air temperatures is slight, each temperature andhumidity sensor 16 may be provided downstream of the filter 9, e.g., atan inner surface of the bell mouth 7.

[0132] Furthermore, the detection means 51 is formed using thetemperature and humidity sensor 16 in the present embodiment because ifthe temperature and humidity of an intake air are detected and a heatload is calculated based on this detection, the heat load can bedetected with a higher degree of accuracy compared with the case whereonly the temperature of an intake air is detected and a heat load iscalculated based on this detection. Therefore, depending on the requireddetection accuracy, a temperature sensor may be provided instead of thetemperature and humidity sensor 16.

[0133] Although the description of the other constituting elements, forexample, will be omitted, the indoor unit Z of the second embodimentalso includes the controller 18 as shown in FIG. 4.

[0134] Accordingly, in the following, how the controller 18 carries outcontrol will be described in detail together with an exemplary controltargeted for the indoor unit Z according to the first embodiment, andfurthermore, an exemplary control targeted for the indoor unit Zaccording to the second embodiment will be also described in detail.

III: Exemplary Control of Air Conditioning Apparatus by Controller 18

[0135] First, the description will be made about the basic conceptsregarding the control of the indoor unit Z and outdoor unit (not shown)by the controller 18.

(a) Area Setting in Space to be Air-Conditioned W

[0136] In each exemplary control described below, as shown in FIG. 21,the space inside the room, i.e., the space to be air-conditioned W, isimaginarily divided into the four areas (1) through (4) each associatedwith the position of the corresponding one of the outlets 4, 4, . . . ofthe indoor unit Z. In addition, based on the measurement temperature ofeach of the areas (1) through (4), the level of a load in each of theareas (1) through (4) of the space to be air-conditioned W or the levelof a load in the overall space to be air-conditioned W, for example, isdetermined. It should be noted that the radiation temperature detectedby the infrared sensor 15 may simply be employed as a measurementtemperature, or the radiation temperature and the intake air temperaturedetected by the temperature and humidity sensor 16 may each be weightedto carry out temperature correction, thus determining a measurementtemperature. Besides, as indicated by in FIG. 21, the position of ahuman body (i.e., the presence of a high temperature region) in each ofthe areas (1) through (4) of the space to be air-conditioned W isdetected by the infrared sensor 15, and is reflected in each control.

[0137] It should be noted that the area setting is not limited to one inwhich the space to be air-conditioned W is divided into the four areas(1) through (4) as described above, but the space to be air-conditionedW may be divided into eight areas (1) through (8) by further dividingeach of the areas (1) through (4) as shown in FIG. 22, for example.Although an increase in the number of the areas enables more minutecontrol, cost increase might be caused due to the increase in the numberof sensors or the increase in the complexity of the control system, forexample; therefore, the number of the areas may be appropriately setdepending on criteria such as required control accuracy.

(b) Operational Air Conditioning Mode

[0138] In each exemplary control described below, an operational airconditioning mode is automatically switched between temperatureuniformization mode and spot air conditioning mode.

[0139] Specifically, the temperature uniformization mode refers to anair conditioning mode in which the temperatures of all areas of thespace to be air-conditioned W are uniformized as much as possible.Suppose that, as shown in FIG. 23, the areas (1) through (4) are equalin number of people present (i.e., the areas (1) through (4) are similarin heat load resulting from radiation heat from human body), and thearea (1) and area (2) are each exposed to a considerable radiation heatpenetrating from outside since these areas each have a window thatconstitutes a high radiation region. In that case, a large quantity ofconditioned air is discharged to the area (1) and area (2) at a wideangle in a horizontal direction, while a small quantity of conditionedair is discharged to the area (3) and area (4) at a narrow angle in ahorizontal direction, thus uniformizing the temperature of the overallspace to be air-conditioned W as much as possible.

[0140] To the contrary, the spot air conditioning mode refers to an airconditioning mode in which the surroundings of people present in thespace to be air-conditioned W are intensively air-conditioned. Supposethat, as shown in FIG. 24, among the areas (1) through (4), one personis present in the area (1) and two people are present in the area (2);however, no one is present in the area (3) and area (4). In that case, alarge quantity of conditioned air is discharged to the area (1) so thatthe conditioned air is discharged, at a narrow angle, toward thesurroundings of the person, a large quantity of conditioned air isdischarged at a wide angle to the area (2), and a small quantity ofconditioned air is discharged to the area (3) and area (4).

(c) Relationship between Set Temperature and Recommendable SetTemperature

[0141] The set temperature refers to a reference temperature incontrolling the capacity of the air conditioning apparatus; when coolingoperation is performed, the set temperature is normally set at about 24°C. in accordance with the maximum load applied during the day time, andwhen heating operation is performed, the set temperature is set at about22° C. in accordance with the maximum load applied in the early morning.

[0142] Therefore, in performing actual cooling and heating operations,if the air conditioning apparatus is always operated at the settemperature when the level of a load is lower than that of the maximumload employed as the criterion for the set temperature, then the airconditioning apparatus is operated to provide a capacity higher thannecessary, which is undesirable from the viewpoint of energyconservation.

[0143] Accordingly, in each exemplary control described below, arecommendable set temperature is provided in addition to the settemperature, and in a low-load state in which the load level is lowerthan the reference level, the recommendable set temperature is adoptedas the reference temperature for the capacity control instead of the settemperature. To be more specific, during cooling operation, the settemperature of 24° C. is automatically switched to the recommendable settemperature of 26° C. when the load level is low, and the settemperature of 24° C. is maintained when the load level is high, asshown in FIGS. 25 and 27.

[0144] On the other hand, during heating operation, the set temperatureof 22° C. is maintained when the load level is low, and the settemperature of 22° C. is automatically switched to the recommendable settemperature of 20° C. when the load level is high, as shown in FIGS. 26and 27. By performing an air conditioning operation while appropriatelyallowing switching between the set temperature and the recommendable settemperature in this manner, energy conservation can be improved.

(d) Exemplary Control (d-1) First Exemplary Control (see FIGS. 11 and12)

[0145] The first exemplary control is targeted for the indoor unit Zaccording to the first embodiment (i.e., the indoor unit formed toinclude, as the detection means 51, only the infrared sensor 15), andthe control over switching of the operational air conditioning modebetween the temperature uniformization mode and the spot airconditioning mode is automatically carried out based on the presence orabsence of a human body (presence or absence of a high temperatureregion) in each of the areas 1 through 4 of the space to beair-conditioned W.

[0146] As illustrated in the flow charts in FIGS. 11 and 12, first,“automatic operation” is selected as an operation mode after the startof the control (step S1), and then the radiation temperatures of theareas (1) through (4) are sequentially detected using the infraredsensors 15, 15, . . . (step S2). Based on the detected values for theareas (1) through (4), the temperature distribution in the overall spaceto be air-conditioned W is calculated, and the position of a human bodyin each of the areas (1) through (4) (i.e., a high temperature region ineach area) is determined (step S3). Furthermore, at this time, amanipulation signal for cooling operation or heating operation isinputted, thus allowing the air conditioning apparatus to performcooling operation or heating operation (step S4).

[0147] Subsequently, it is determined in step S5 whether or not thepresence of a human body is detected in each of the areas (1) through(4), and the determination result is employed as the criterion forswitching the operational air conditioning mode.

[0148] It should be noted that although whether or not a person ispresent in each of the areas (1) through (4) is employed as thecriterion for switching the operational air conditioning mode in thisexemplary control, the percentage of the area with the presence of aperson to all the areas (1) through (4) may naturally be employed as thecriterion for switching the operational air conditioning mode in theother exemplary control. The criterion for the switching in thisexemplary control is merely an example (in this example, the percentageof the area with the presence of a person to all the areas is 100%).

[0149] If it is now determined in step S5 that a person is present ineach of the areas (1) through (4), the operational air conditioning modeis set to the temperature uniformization mode (step S6). On the otherhand, if any one of the areas (1) through (4) is without the presence ofa person, the operational air conditioning mode is set to the spot airconditioning mode (step S14).

[0150] In the former case, even if the number of people may vary, atleast a person is present in each of the areas (1) through (4);therefore, in order to ensure the comfort of air conditioning in each ofthe areas (1) through (4), it is preferable that the temperatures of theareas (1) through (4) are each set at a uniformized temperature as muchas possible.

[0151] To the contrary, in the latter case, at least one of the areas(1) through (4) is without the presence of a person. Therefore, if thearea without the presence of a person is air-conditioned as with theother areas (i.e., the areas with the presence of people), the airconditioning operation becomes uneconomical by the air conditioning ofthe area without the presence of a person; thus, it is conceivable thatspot air conditioning of only the areas with the presence of people ismore advantageous from the viewpoint of energy conservation. In otherwords, it is conceivable that this is an optimum method for achievingboth of the comfort of air conditioning and energy conservation.

[0152] If the answer is YES in step S5, the process of the control goesto the execution of the temperature uniformization mode (step S6), andthe operational mode of the air flow changing means 52 is firstdetermined in order to uniformize the room temperature.

[0153] Specifically, in step S7, the ratio of air quantities from theoutlets 4, 4, . . . of the indoor unit Z (i.e., the ratio of openingareas in the outlets 4, 4, . . . adjusted by the air quantitydistribution mechanisms 10, 10, . . . ) is calculated, and theoperational modes of the first flaps 12, 12, . . . and the second flaps13, 13, . . . are each set at “swing”. In this step, the operationalmodes of all the first flaps 12 and second flaps 13 are each set at“swing” because it is necessary to discharge conditioned air evenly to awider range of the room from the outlets 4, 4, . . . .

[0154] Based on each setting made in step S7, the ratio of airquantities, lateral wind direction, and longitudinal wind direction areadjusted (step S8).

[0155] Next, the process goes to the control of the capacity of theindoor unit Z in the temperature uniformization mode. To require theindoor unit Z to provide a capacity more than necessary is undesirablefrom the standpoint of ensuring energy conservation. Therefore, if theindoor unit Z provides an excessive capacity, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled so that its capacity is reduced, and if the indoor unit Zprovides an insufficient capacity, the indoor unit Z is controlled sothat its capacity is increased. Specifically, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled as follows.

[0156] First, the level of a load applied to the overall space to beair-conditioned W is determined in step S9. To be more specific, whencooling operation is currently performed, it is determined whether theaverage temperature Tm of all the areas (1) through (4) inside the roomis lower than, equal to or higher than 26° C., and when heatingoperation is currently performed, it is determined whether the averagetemperature Tm of all the areas (1) through (4) inside the room is lowerthan, equal to or higher than 23° C. It should be noted that the averagetemperature is determined by the average of the radiation temperaturesof the areas (1) through (4) detected by the infrared sensor 15.

[0157] In this step, if it is determined that the load level is high(i.e., if the average temperature Tm is higher than 26° C. duringcooling operation, or if the average temperature Tm is lower than 23° C.during heating operation), the process goes to automatic capacitycontrol that is carried out based on a set temperature Ts (step S10). Tothe contrary, if it is determined that the load level is low (i.e., ifthe average temperature Tm is equal to or lower than 26° C. duringcooling operation, or if the average temperature Tm is equal to orhigher than 23° C. during heating operation), the process goes toautomatic capacity control that is carried out based on a recommendableset temperature Tss (step S11).

[0158] First, in carrying out the automatic capacity control based onthe set temperature Ts, a comparison is made between the current averagetemperature Tm and the set temperature Ts in step S10. In this step,when the average temperature Tm is equal to or lower than the settemperature Ts during cooling operation, or when the average temperatureTm is equal to or higher than the set temperature Ts during heatingoperation, it is determined that air conditioning capacity is excessive.In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity isreduced, for example, by reducing the number of rotations of acompressor and reducing the number of rotations of the fan 6 of theindoor unit Z (step S13).

[0159] To the contrary, when the average temperature Tm is higher thanthe set temperature Ts during cooling operation, or when the averagetemperature Tm is lower than the set temperature Ts during heatingoperation, it is determined that air conditioning capacity isinsufficient. In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that itscapacity is increased, for example, by increasing the number ofrotations of a compressor and increasing the number of rotations of thefan 6 (step S12).

[0160] On the other hand, in carrying out the automatic capacity controlbased on the recommendable set temperature Tss, first, a comparison ismade between the current average temperature Tm and the recommendableset temperature Tss in step S11. In this step, when the averagetemperature Tm is equal to or lower than the recommendable settemperature Tss during cooling operation, or when the averagetemperature Tm is equal to or higher than the recommendable settemperature Tss during heating operation, it is determined that airconditioning capacity is excessive. In this case, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled so that its capacity is reduced (step S13). To the contrary,when the average temperature Tm is higher than the recommendable settemperature Tss during cooling operation, or when the averagetemperature Tm is lower than the recommendable set temperature Tssduring heating operation, it is determined that air conditioningcapacity is insufficient. In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlledso that its capacity is increased (step S12).

[0161] The above-described operation and automatic capacity control inthe temperature uniformization mode are repeatedly carried out as longas the requirements for the execution of the temperature uniformizationmode are met.

[0162] On the other hand, if the answer is NO in step S5 (i.e., if it isdetermined that there exist, among all the areas (1) through (4), atleast one or more of the areas without the presence of people), theprocess goes to the execution of the spot air conditioning mode (stepS14).

[0163] After the operational air conditioning mode has been switched tothe spot air conditioning mode, first, the number of people present ineach of the areas (1) through (4) is calculated in step S15. Then, inorder to realize the optimum spot air conditioning for each of the areas(1) through (4) in accordance with the number of people present in eachof the areas (1) through (4), the required operational modes of the airflow changing means 52 provided in the outlets 4, 4, . . . , eachassociated with the corresponding one of the areas (1) through (4), aredetermined.

[0164] For the area with the presence of only one person, the ratio ofair quantities is set at “large”, and the lateral wind direction andlongitudinal wind direction (i.e., the operational modes of the firstflaps 12 and the second flaps 13) are determined so as to direct thedischarge of conditioned air toward the position of a human body (step16).

[0165] In addition, for the area without the presence of a person, sincethis area does not need air conditioning itself, the ratio of airquantities is fixed at “small” and the lateral wind direction andlongitudinal wind direction are both fixed (step S17).

[0166] Furthermore, the area with the presence of a plurality of peoplemost needs air conditioning and requires uniform air conditioning of theentire area. Therefore, for this area, the ratio of air quantities isset at “large”; in addition, to determine each discharge direction ofconditioned air, the operational modes of the flaps for changing thelateral wind direction are each set at “swing”, and the operationalmodes of the flaps for changing the longitudinal wind direction are eachdetermined in accordance with the position of a human body (step S18).

[0167] Based on the settings made in steps S16 through S15, the ratio ofair quantities, lateral wind direction, and longitudinal wind directionare adjusted (step S19).

[0168] Next, the process goes to the control of the capacity of theindoor unit Z in the spot air conditioning mode. Also in the spot airconditioning mode, to require the indoor unit Z to provide a capacitymore than necessary is undesirable from the standpoint of ensuringenergy conservation, as in the above-described temperatureuniformization mode. Therefore, if the indoor unit Z provides anexcessive capacity, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacityis reduced, and if the indoor unit Z provides an insufficient capacity,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is increased.Specifically, the indoor unit Z is controlled as follows.

[0169] First, in step S20, the infrared sensor 15 carries out detectionfor each of the areas (1) through (4) of the space to be air-conditionedW again, and the temperature distribution and position of a human bodyin the overall space to be air-conditioned W are determined based onpieces of the detected information (step 21).

[0170] Next, in step S22, the load level in the overall space to beair-conditioned W is determined. If cooling operation is currentlyperformed, it is determined whether the average temperature Tm of allthe areas (1) through (4) inside the room is lower than, equal to orhigher than 26° C., and if heating operation is currently performed, itis determined whether the average temperature Tm of all the areas (1)through (4) is lower than, equal to or higher than 23° C.

[0171] If it is determined that the load level is high (i.e., if theaverage temperature Tm is higher than 26° C. during cooling operation,or if the average temperature Tm is lower than 23° C. during heatingoperation), the process goes to automatic capacity control that iscarried out based on a set temperature Ts (step S23). To the contrary,if it is determined that the load level is low (i.e., if the averagetemperature Tm is equal to or lower than 26° C. during coolingoperation, or if the average temperature Tm is equal to or higher than23° C. during heating operation), the process goes to automatic capacitycontrol that is carried out based on a recommendable set temperature Tss(step S24).

[0172] First, in carrying out the automatic capacity control based onthe set temperature Ts, a comparison is made between the current humanbody ambient temperature Tp and the set temperature Ts in step S23. Inthis step, when the human body ambient temperature Tp is equal to orlower than the set temperature Ts during cooling operation, or when thehuman body ambient temperature Tp is equal to or higher than the settemperature Ts during heating operation, it is determined that airconditioning capacity is excessive. In this case, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled so that its capacity is reduced (step S13).

[0173] To the contrary, when the human body ambient temperature Tp ishigher than the set temperature Ts during cooling operation, or when thehuman body ambient temperature Tp is lower than the set temperature Tsduring heating operation, it is determined that air conditioningcapacity is insufficient. In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlledso that its capacity is increased (step S12).

[0174] Furthermore, when a difference between the average temperature Tmand the set temperature Ts is greater than a predetermined temperatureα° C. during cooling operation, or when a difference between the settemperature Ts and the average temperature Tm is greater than apredetermined temperature α° C. during heating operation, it is deemedthat the capacity control is unnecessary, and the process of the controlis returned (step S23→step S6).

[0175] On the other hand, in carrying out the automatic capacity controlbased on the recommendable set temperature Tss, a comparison is madebetween the current human body ambient temperature Tp and therecommendable set temperature Tss in step S24. In this step, when thehuman body ambient temperature Tp is equal to or lower than therecommendable set temperature Tss during cooling operation, or when thehuman body ambient temperature Tp is equal to or higher than therecommendable set temperature Tss during heating operation, it isdetermined that air conditioning capacity is excessive. In this case,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is reduced (stepS13).

[0176] To the contrary, when the human body ambient temperature Tp ishigher than the recommendable set temperature Tss during coolingoperation, or when the human body ambient temperature Tp is lower thanthe recommendable set temperature Tss during heating operation, it isdetermined that air conditioning capacity is insufficient. In this case,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is increased (stepS12).

[0177] Furthermore, when a difference between the average temperature Tmand the set temperature Ts is greater than a predetermined temperatureβ° C. during cooling operation, or when a difference between the settemperature Ts and the average temperature Tm is greater than apredetermined temperature β° C. during heating operation, it is deemedthat the capacity control is unnecessary, and the process of the controlis returned (step S24→step S6).

[0178] The above-described operation and automatic capacity control inthe spot air conditioning mode are repeatedly carried out as long as therequirements for the execution of the spot air conditioning mode aremet.

(d-2) Second Exemplary Control (see FIGS. 13 and 14)

[0179] The second exemplary control is targeted for the indoor unit Zaccording to the first embodiment (i.e., the indoor unit formed toinclude, as the detection means 51, only the infrared sensor 15). In thesecond exemplary control, the control over switching of the operationalair conditioning mode between the temperature uniformization mode andthe spot air conditioning mode is automatically carried out based onwhether the load level in the overall space to be air-conditioned W ishigh or low.

[0180] As illustrated in the flow charts in FIGS. 13 and 14, first,“automatic operation” is selected as an operation mode after the startof the control (step S1), and then the radiation temperatures of theareas (1) through (4) are sequentially detected using the infraredsensors 15, 15, . . . (step S2). Based on the detected values for theareas (1) through (4), the temperature distribution in the overall spaceto be air-conditioned W is calculated, and the position of a human bodyin each of the areas (1) through (4) (i.e., a high temperature region ineach area) is determined (step S3). Furthermore, at this time, amanipulation signal for cooling operation or heating operation isinputted, thus allowing the air conditioning apparatus to performcooling operation or heating operation (step S4).

[0181] Subsequently, in step S5, the load level in the overall space tobe air-conditioned W is determined, and the determination result isemployed as the criterion for switching the operational air conditioningmode. It should be noted that the load level in the overall space to beair-conditioned W is determined by making a comparison between theaverage temperature Tm of the overall space to be air-conditioned W andreference temperature. Furthermore, the average temperature Tm isdetermined by the average of the radiation temperatures of the areas (1)through (4) detected by the infrared sensor 15.

[0182] In step S5, when cooling operation is performed, it is determinedwhether the average temperature Tm is lower than, equal to or higherthan 26° C., and when heating operation is performed, it is determinedwhether the average temperature Tm is lower than, equal to or higherthan 23° C. To be more specific, when it is determined that the averagetemperature Tm is higher than 26° C. during cooling operation, or whenit is determined that the average temperature Tm is higher than 23° C.during heating operation, the process of the control goes to theexecution of the temperature uniformization mode (step S6). To thecontrary, when it is determined that the average temperature Tm is equalto or lower than 26° C. during cooling operation, or when it isdetermined that the average temperature Tm is equal to or lower than 23°C. during heating operation, the process goes to the execution of thespot air conditioning mode (step S14).

[0183] In the former case, the average temperature Tm in the space to beair-conditioned W is high, i.e., a lot of people are present in thespace to be air-conditioned W, and therefore, there is a great need forthe uniformization of the temperature of the overall space to beair-conditioned W. To the contrary, in the latter case, the averagetemperature Tm in the space to be air-conditioned W is low, i.e., only afew people are present in the space to be air-conditioned W, andtherefore, it is more economical to provide spot air conditioning to thesurroundings of people than to provide air conditioning to the overallspace to be air-conditioned W.

[0184] After the operational air conditioning mode has been switched tothe temperature uniformization mode (step S6), first, the operationalmode of each air flow changing means 52 is determined in order touniformize the room temperature.

[0185] In step S7, the ratio of air quantities from the outlets 4, 4, .. . of the indoor unit Z (i.e., the ratio of opening areas in theoutlets 4, 4, . . . adjusted by the air quantity distribution mechanisms10, 10, . . . ) is calculated. Furthermore, the operational modes of thefirst flaps 12, 12, . . . and the second flaps 13, 13, . . . are eachset at “swing”. In this step, the operational modes of all the firstflaps 12 and second flaps 13 are each set at “swing” because it isnecessary to discharge conditioned air evenly to a wider range of theroom from the outlets 4, 4, . . . .

[0186] Based on each setting made in step S7, the ratio of airquantities, lateral wind direction, and longitudinal wind direction areadjusted (step S8).

[0187] Next, the process goes to the control of the capacity of theindoor unit Z in the temperature uniformization mode. To require theindoor unit Z to provide a capacity more than necessary is undesirablefrom the standpoint of ensuring energy conservation. Therefore, if theindoor unit Z provides an excessive capacity, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled so that its capacity is reduced, and if the indoor unit Zprovides an insufficient capacity, the indoor unit Z is controlled sothat its capacity is increased. Specifically, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled as follows.

[0188] First, it is determined in step S9 whether the operation mode ofthe main unit of the air conditioning apparatus is a cooling mode or aheating mode. If the operation mode is the cooling mode, the processgoes to automatic capacity control that is carried out based on a settemperature (step 10), and if the operation mode is the heating mode,the process goes to automatic capacity control that is carried out basedon a recommendable set temperature (step S11). In step S9, the selectionof the mode of the automatic capacity control is carried out based onthe operation mode of the main unit because of the following reasons.The average temperature Tm of the space to be air-conditioned W is highin the temperature uniformization mode; therefore, air conditioning ispreferably performed at the set temperature during cooling operationsince the load level is high. To the contrary, air conditioning ispreferably performed at the recommendable set temperature during heatingoperation since the load level is low.

[0189] In carrying out the automatic capacity control based on the settemperature, first, a comparison is made between the average temperatureTm and the set temperature Ts in step S10. In this step, when theaverage temperature Tm is equal to or lower than the set temperature Ts,it is determined that air conditioning capacity is excessive. In thiscase, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is reduced,for example, by reducing the number of rotations of a compressor andreducing the number of rotations of the fan 6 of the indoor unit Z (stepS13).

[0190] To the contrary, when the average temperature Tm is higher thanthe set temperature Ts, it is determined that air conditioning capacityis insufficient. In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so thatits capacity is increased, for example, by increasing the number ofrotations of a compressor and increasing the number of rotations of thefan 6 (step S12).

[0191] On the other hand, in carrying out the automatic capacity controlbased on the recommendable set temperature Tss, first, a comparison ismade between the current average temperature Tm and the recommendableset temperature Tss in step S11. When the average temperature Tm isequal to or higher than the recommendable set temperature Tss, it isdetermined that air conditioning capacity is excessive. In this case,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is reduced (stepS13). To the contrary, when the average temperature Tm is lower than therecommendable set temperature Tss, it is determined that airconditioning capacity is insufficient. In this case, the indoor unit Zis controlled so that its capacity is increased (step S12).

[0192] The above-described operation and automatic capacity control inthe temperature uniformization mode are repeatedly carried out as longas the requirements for the execution of the temperature uniformizationmode are met.

[0193] On the other hand, if the spot air conditioning mode has beenselected in step S5, the process goes to the execution of the spot airconditioning mode (step S14).

[0194] After the operational air conditioning mode has been switched tothe spot air conditioning mode, first, the number of people present ineach of the areas (1) through (4) is calculated in step S15. In order torealize the optimum spot air conditioning for each of the areas (1)through (4) in accordance with the number of people present in each ofthe areas (1) through (4), the required operational modes of the airflow changing means 52 provided in the outlets 4, 4, . . . , eachassociated with the corresponding one of the areas (1) through (4), aredetermined.

[0195] For the area with the presence of only one person, the ratio ofair quantities is set at “large”, and the lateral wind direction andlongitudinal wind direction (i.e., the operational modes of the firstflaps 12 and the second flaps 13) are determined so as to direct thedischarge of conditioned air toward the position of a human body (step16).

[0196] In addition, for the area without the presence of a person, sincethis area does not need air conditioning itself, the ratio of airquantities is fixed at “small” and the lateral wind direction andlongitudinal wind direction are both fixed (step S17).

[0197] Furthermore, the area with the presence of a plurality of peoplemost needs air conditioning and requires uniform air conditioning of theentire area. Therefore, for this area, the ratio of air quantities isset at “large”. Besides, to determine each discharge direction ofconditioned air, the operational modes of the flaps for changing thelateral wind direction are each set at “swing”, and the operationalmodes of the flaps for changing the longitudinal wind direction are eachdetermined in accordance with the position of a human body (step S18).

[0198] Based on the settings made in steps S16 through S18, the ratio ofair quantities, lateral wind direction, and longitudinal wind directionare adjusted (step S19).

[0199] Next, the process goes to the control of the capacity of theindoor unit Z in the spot air conditioning mode. Also in the spot airconditioning mode, to require the indoor unit Z to provide a capacitymore than necessary is undesirable from the standpoint of ensuringenergy conservation, as in the above-described temperatureuniformization mode. Therefore, if the indoor unit Z provides anexcessive capacity, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacityis reduced, and if the indoor unit Z provides an insufficient capacity,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is increased.Furthermore, if the states of the excessive capacity and insufficientcapacity are within a predetermined range and are too negligible tocarry out control, the process of the control is returned withoutcarrying out any capacity control. Specifically, the following steps areperformed.

[0200] First, in step S20, the infrared sensor 15 carries out detectionfor each of the areas (1) through (4) of the space to be air-conditionedW again, and the temperature distribution and human body position in theoverall space to be air-conditioned W are determined based on pieces ofthe detected information (step 21).

[0201] Next, in step S22, the load level in the overall space to beair-conditioned W is determined. To be more specific, if coolingoperation is currently performed, it is determined whether the averagetemperature Tm of all the areas (1) through (4) inside the room is lowerthan, equal to or higher than 26° C. On the other hand, if heatingoperation is currently performed, it is determined whether the averagetemperature Tm is in the range of 18° C. to 23° C. or lower than 18° C.

[0202] If it is determined that the load level is high (i.e., if theaverage temperature Tm is higher than 26° C. during cooling operation,or if the average temperature Tm is lower than 18° C. during heatingoperation), the process goes to automatic capacity control that iscarried out based on a set temperature Ts (step S23). To the contrary,if it is determined that the load level is low (i.e., if the averagetemperature Tm is equal to or lower than 26° C. during coolingoperation, or if the average temperature Tm is in the rage of 18° C. to23° C. during heating operation), the process goes to automatic capacitycontrol that is carried out based on a recommendable set temperature Tss(step S24).

[0203] First, in carrying out the automatic capacity control based onthe set temperature Ts, a comparison is made between the current humanbody ambient temperature Tp and the set temperature Ts in step S23. Inthis step, when the human body ambient temperature Tp is equal to orlower than the set temperature Ts during cooling operation, or when thehuman body ambient temperature Tp is equal to or higher than the settemperature Ts during heating operation, it is determined that airconditioning capacity is excessive. In this case, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled so that its capacity is reduced (step S13).

[0204] To the contrary, when the human body ambient temperature Tp ishigher than the set temperature Ts during cooling operation, or when thehuman body ambient temperature Tp is lower than the set temperature Tsduring heating operation, it is determined that air conditioningcapacity is insufficient. In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlledso that its capacity is increased (step S12).

[0205] Furthermore, when a difference between the average temperature Tmand the set temperature Ts is greater than a predetermined temperatureα° C. during cooling operation, or when a difference between the settemperature Ts and the average temperature Tm is greater than apredetermined temperature α° C. during heating operation, it is deemedthat the capacity control is unnecessary, and the process of the controlis returned (step S23→step S6).

[0206] On the other hand, in carrying out the automatic capacity controlbased on the recommendable set temperature Tss, a comparison is madebetween the current human body ambient temperature Tp and therecommendable set temperature Tss in step S24. In this step, when thehuman body ambient temperature Tp is equal to or lower than therecommendable set temperature Tss during cooling operation, or when thehuman body ambient temperature Tp is equal or higher than therecommendable set temperature Tss during heating operation, it isdetermined that air conditioning capacity is excessive. In this case,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is reduced (stepS13).

[0207] To the contrary, when the human body ambient temperature Tp ishigher than the recommendable set temperature Ts during coolingoperation, or when the human body ambient temperature Tp is lower thanthe recommendable set temperature Ts during heating operation, it isdetermined that air conditioning capacity is insufficient. In this case,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is increased (stepS12).

[0208] Furthermore, when a difference between the average temperature Tmand the set temperature Ts is greater than a predetermined temperatureβ° C. during cooling operation, or when a difference between the settemperature Ts and the average temperature Tm is greater than apredetermined temperature β° C. during heating operation, it is deemedthat the capacity control is unnecessary, and the process of the controlis returned (step S24→step S6).

[0209] The above-described operation and automatic capacity control inthe spot air conditioning mode are repeatedly carried out as long as therequirements for the execution of the spot air conditioning mode aremet.

(d-3) Third Exemplary Control (see FIGS. 15 and 16)

[0210] The third exemplary control is targeted for the indoor unit Zaccording to the first embodiment (i.e., the indoor unit formed toinclude, as the detection means 51, only the infrared sensor 15). In thethird exemplary control, basically, the control over switching of theoperational air conditioning mode between the temperature uniformizationmode and the spot air conditioning mode is automatically carried outbased on the presence or absence of a human body (i.e., the presence orabsence of a high temperature region) in each of the areas 1 through 4of the space to be air-conditioned W as in the first exemplary control.Furthermore, in the third exemplary control, the control over theswitching of the stabilized operational air conditioning mode isrealized by causing a delay in the control over the switching of theoperational air conditioning mode.

[0211] As illustrated in the flow charts in FIGS. 15 and 16, first,“automatic operation” is selected as an operation mode after the startof the control (step S1), and then the radiation temperatures of theareas (1) through (4) are sequentially detected using the infraredsensors 15, 15, . . . (step S2). Based on the detected values for theareas (1) through (4), the temperature distribution in the overall spaceto be air-conditioned W is calculated, and the position of a human bodyin each of the areas (1) through (4) (i.e., a high temperature region ineach area) is determined (step S3). Furthermore, at this time, amanipulation signal for cooling operation or heating operation isinputted, thus allowing the air conditioning apparatus to performcooling operation or heating operation (step S4).

[0212] Subsequently, it is determined in step S5 whether or not apredetermined period of time has elapsed after the start of theoperation or after the previous switching of the operational airconditioning mode. If the answer is YES in this step, the operationalair conditioning mode is immediately set at the temperatureuniformization mode (step S7) without determining the selection of theoperational air conditioning mode, and air conditioning is continuouslyperformed in the temperature uniformization mode until the predeterminedperiod of time has elapsed. To the contrary, if the answer is NO, theprocess goes to the selection of the operational air conditioning modein step S6.

[0213] In this manner, the operational air conditioning mode is fixed atthe temperature uniformization mode until a predetermined period of timehas elapsed after the start of the operation or the previous switchingof the operational air conditioning mode. Accordingly, the control overswitching of the initial or next operational air conditioning mode iscarried out after the stabilization of the operation of the airconditioning apparatus itself, or after the stabilization of theoperational change of each air flow changing means 52 performed inswitching the operational air conditioning mode. Consequently, thereliability of the control is ensured, and thus the comfort of airconditioning or energy conservation is improved with much morecertainty.

[0214] Next, in step S6, it is determined whether or not the presence ofa human body is detected in each of the areas (1) through (4), and thedetermination result is employed as the criterion for switching theoperational air conditioning mode.

[0215] It should be noted that in this exemplary control, whether or nota person is present in each of the areas (1) through (4) is employed asthe criterion for switching the operational air conditioning mode. Inthe other exemplary control, however, the percentage of the area withthe presence of a person to all the areas (1) through (4) may naturallybe employed as the criterion for switching the operational airconditioning mode. The criterion for the switching in this exemplarycontrol is merely an example (in this example, the percentage of thearea with the presence of a person to all the areas is 100%).

[0216] If it is determined in step S6 that a person is currently presentin each of the areas (1) through (4), the operational air conditioningmode is set to the temperature uniformization mode (step S7). On theother hand, if it is determined that any one of the areas (1) through(4) is without the presence of a person, the operational airconditioning mode is set to the spot air conditioning mode (step S115).

[0217] In the former case, even if the number of people may vary, atleast a person is present in each of the areas (1) through (4).Therefore, in order to ensure the comfort of air conditioning in each ofthe areas (1) through (4), it is preferable that the temperatures of theareas (1) through (4) are each set at a uniformized temperature as muchas possible. To the contrary, in the latter case, at least one of theareas (1) through (4) is without the presence of a person. Therefore, ifthe area without the presence of a person is air-conditioned as with theother areas (i.e., the areas with the presence of people), the airconditioning operation becomes uneconomical by the air conditioning ofthe area without the presence of a person. Thus, it is conceivable thatspot air conditioning of only the areas with the presence of people ismore advantageous from the viewpoint of energy conservation. In otherwords, it is conceivable that this is an optimum method for achievingboth of the comfort of air conditioning and energy conservation.

[0218] If the answer is YES in step S6, the process of the control goesto the execution of the temperature uniformization mode (step S7), andthe operational mode of the air flow changing means 52 is firstdetermined in order to uniformize the room temperature.

[0219] In step S8, the ratio of air quantities from the outlets 4, 4, .. . of the indoor unit Z (i.e., the ratio of opening areas in theoutlets 4, 4, . . . adjusted by the air quantity distribution mechanisms10, 10, . . . ) is calculated, and the operational modes of the firstflaps 12, 12, . . . and the second flaps 13, 13, . . . are each set at“swing”. In this step, the operational modes of all the first flaps 12and second flaps 13 are each set at “swing” because it is necessary todischarge conditioned air evenly to a wider range of the room from theoutlets 4, 4, . . . .

[0220] Based on each setting made in step S7, the ratio of airquantities, lateral wind direction, and longitudinal wind direction areadjusted (step S9).

[0221] Next, the process goes to the control of the capacity of theindoor unit Z in the temperature uniformization mode. To require theindoor unit Z to provide a capacity more than necessary is undesirablefrom the standpoint of ensuring energy conservation. Therefore, if theindoor unit Z provides an excessive capacity, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled so that its capacity is reduced, and if the indoor unit Zprovides an insufficient capacity, the indoor unit Z is controlled sothat its capacity is increased. Specifically, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled as follows.

[0222] First, the load level in the overall space to be air-conditionedW is determined in step S10. To be more specific, when cooling operationis currently performed, it is determined whether the average temperatureTm of all the areas (1) through (4) inside the room is lower than, equalto or higher than 26° C., and when heating operation is currentlyperformed, it is determined whether the average temperature Tm of allthe areas (1) through (4) is lower than, equal to or higher than 23° C.It should be noted that the average temperature is determined by theaverage of the radiation temperatures of the areas (1) through (4)detected by the infrared sensor 15.

[0223] In this step, if it is determined that the load level is high(i.e., if the average temperature Tm is higher than 26° C. duringcooling operation, or if the average temperature Tm is lower than 23° C.during heating operation), the process goes to automatic capacitycontrol that is carried out based on a set temperature Ts (step S11). Tothe contrary, if it is determined that the load level is low (i.e., ifthe average temperature Tm is equal to or lower than 26° C. duringcooling operation, or if the average temperature Tm is equal to orhigher than 23° C. during heating operation), the process goes toautomatic capacity control that is carried out based on a recommendableset temperature Tss (step S12).

[0224] First, in carrying out the automatic capacity control based onthe set temperature Ts, a comparison is made between the current averagetemperature Tm and the set temperature Ts in step S11. In this step,when the average temperature Tm is equal to or lower than the settemperature Ts during cooling operation, or when the average temperatureTm is equal to or higher than the set temperature Ts during heatingoperation, it is determined that air conditioning capacity is excessive.In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity isreduced, for example, by reducing the number of rotations of acompressor and reducing the number of rotations of the fan 6 of theindoor unit Z (step S14).

[0225] To the contrary, when the average temperature Tm is higher thanthe set temperature Ts during cooling operation, or when the averagetemperature Tm is lower than the set temperature Ts during heatingoperation, it is determined that air conditioning capacity isinsufficient. In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that itscapacity is increased, for example, by increasing the number ofrotations of a compressor and increasing the number of rotations of thefan 6 (step S13).

[0226] On the other hand, in carrying out the automatic capacity controlbased on the recommendable set temperature Tss, first, a comparison ismade between the current average temperature Tm and the recommendableset temperature Tss in step S12. In this step, when the averagetemperature Tm is equal to or lower than the recommendable settemperature Tss during cooling operation, or when the averagetemperature Tm is equal to or higher than the recommendable settemperature Tss during heating operation, it is determined that airconditioning capacity is excessive. In this case, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled so that its capacity is reduced (step S14). To the contrary,when the average temperature Tm is higher than the recommendable settemperature Tss during cooling operation, or when the averagetemperature Tm is lower than the recommendable set temperature Tssduring heating operation, it is determined that air conditioningcapacity is insufficient. In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlledso that its capacity is increased (step S13).

[0227] The above-described operation and automatic capacity control inthe temperature uniformization mode are repeatedly carried out as longas the requirements for the execution of the temperature uniformizationmode are met.

[0228] On the other hand, if the answer is NO in step S6 (i.e., if it isdetermined that there exist, among all the areas (1) through (4), atleast one or more of the areas without the presence of people), theprocess goes to the execution of the spot air conditioning mode (stepS15).

[0229] After the operational air conditioning mode has been switched tothe spot air conditioning mode, first, the number of people present ineach of the areas (1) through (4) is calculated in step S16. Then, inorder to realize the optimum spot air conditioning for each of the areas(1) through (4) in accordance with the number of people present in eachof the areas (1) through (4), the required operational modes of the airflow changing means 52 provided in the outlets 4, 4, . . . , eachassociated with the corresponding one of the areas (1) through (4), aredetermined.

[0230] For the area with the presence of only one person, the ratio ofair quantities is set at “large”, and the lateral wind direction andlongitudinal wind direction (i.e., the operational modes of the firstflaps 12 and the second flaps 13) are determined so as to direct thedischarge of conditioned air toward the position of a human body (step17).

[0231] In addition, for the area without the presence of a person, sincethis area does not need air conditioning itself, the ratio of airquantities is fixed at “small” and the lateral wind direction andlongitudinal wind direction are both fixed (step S18).

[0232] Furthermore, the area with the presence of a plurality of peoplemost needs air conditioning and requires uniform air conditioning of theentire area. Therefore, for this area, the ratio of air quantities isset at “large”. In addition, to determine each discharge direction ofconditioned air, the operational modes of the flaps for changing thelateral wind direction are each set at “swing”, and the operationalmodes of the flaps for changing the longitudinal wind direction are eachdetermined in accordance with the position of a human body (step S19).

[0233] Based on the settings made in steps S17 through S19, the ratio ofair quantities, lateral wind direction, and longitudinal wind directionare adjusted (step S20).

[0234] Next, the process goes to the control of the capacity of theindoor unit Z in the spot air conditioning mode. Also in the spot airconditioning mode, to require the indoor unit Z to provide a capacitymore than necessary is undesirable from the standpoint of ensuringenergy conservation, as in the above-described temperatureuniformization mode. Therefore, if the indoor unit Z provides anexcessive capacity, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacityis reduced, and if the indoor unit Z provides an insufficient capacity,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is increased.Specifically, the indoor unit Z is controlled as follows.

[0235] First, in step S21, the infrared sensor 15 carries out detectionfor each of the areas (1) through (4) of the space to be air-conditionedW again, and the temperature distribution and human body position in theoverall space to be air-conditioned W are determined based on pieces ofthe detected information (step 22).

[0236] Next, in step S23, the load level in the overall space to beair-conditioned W is determined. Specifically, if cooling operation iscurrently performed, it is determined whether the average temperature Tmof all the areas (1) through (4) inside the room is lower than, equal toor higher than 26° C., and if heating operation is currently performed,it is determined whether the average temperature Tm of all the areas (1)through (4) is lower than, equal to or higher than 23° C.

[0237] If it is determined that the load level is high (i.e., if theaverage temperature Tm is higher than 26° C. during cooling operation,or if the average temperature Tm is lower than 23° C. during heatingoperation), the process goes to automatic capacity control that iscarried out based on a set temperature Ts (step S24). To the contrary,if it is determined that the load level is low (i.e., if the averagetemperature Tm is equal to or lower than 26° C. during coolingoperation, or if the average temperature Tm is equal to or higher than23° C. during heating operation), the process goes to automatic capacitycontrol that is carried out based on a recommendable set temperature Tss(step S25).

[0238] First, in carrying out the automatic capacity control based onthe set temperature Ts, a comparison is made between the current humanbody ambient temperature Tp and the set temperature Ts in step S24. Inthis step, when the human body ambient temperature Tp is equal to orlower than the-set temperature Ts during cooling operation, or when thehuman body ambient temperature Tp is equal to or higher than the settemperature Ts during heating operation, it is determined that airconditioning capacity is excessive. In this case, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled so that its capacity is reduced (step S14).

[0239] To the contrary, when the human body ambient temperature Tp ishigher than the set temperature Ts during cooling operation, or when thehuman body ambient temperature Tp is lower than the set temperature Tsduring heating operation, it is determined that air conditioningcapacity is insufficient. In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlledso that its capacity is increased (step S13).

[0240] Furthermore, when a difference between the average temperature Tmand the set temperature Ts is greater than a predetermined temperatureα° C. during cooling operation, or when a difference between the settemperature Ts and the average temperature Tm is greater than apredetermined temperature α° C. during heating operation, it is deemedthat the capacity control is unnecessary, and the process of the controlis returned (step S24→step S7).

[0241] On the other hand, in carrying out the automatic capacity controlbased on the recommendable set temperature Tss, a comparison is madebetween the current human body ambient temperature Tp and therecommendable set temperature Tss in step S25. In this step, when thehuman body ambient temperature Tp is equal to or lower than therecommendable set temperature Tss during cooling operation, or when thehuman body ambient temperature Tp is equal to or higher than therecommendable set temperature Tss during heating operation, it isdetermined that air conditioning capacity is excessive. In this case,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is reduced (stepS14).

[0242] To the contrary, when the human body ambient temperature Tp ishigher than the recommendable set temperature Tss during coolingoperation, or when the human body ambient temperature Tp is lower thanthe recommendable set temperature Tss during heating operation, it isdetermined that air conditioning capacity is insufficient. In this case,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is increased (stepS13).

[0243] Furthermore, when a difference between the average temperature Tmand the set temperature Ts is greater than a predetermined temperatureβ° C. during cooling operation, or when a difference between the settemperature Ts and the average temperature Tm is greater than apredetermined temperature β° C. during heating operation, it is deemedthat the capacity control is unnecessary, and the process of the controlis returned (step S25→step S7).

[0244] The above-described operation and automatic capacity control inthe spot air conditioning mode are repeatedly carried out as long as therequirements for the execution of the spot air conditioning mode aremet.

(d-4) Fourth Exemplary Control (see FIGS. 17 and 18)

[0245] The fourth exemplary control is targeted for the indoor unit Zaccording to the first embodiment (i.e., the indoor unit formed toinclude, as the detection means 51, only the infrared sensor 15). In thefourth exemplary control, the control over switching of the operationalair conditioning mode between the temperature uniformization mode andthe spot air conditioning mode is automatically carried out by using aschedule timer in which provision is made for each time period of a day.

[0246] An example of the schedule timer is illustrated in FIG. 28. Inthis example, 24 hours of a day are divided into four hour time periods,and the operational air conditioning mode is set for each time period inaccordance with a living environment or a business environment in thetime period. The illustrated schedule timer is intended for airconditioning of a restaurant, for example; therefore, the temperatureuniformization mode is selected as the operational air conditioning modefor the time period from 12 o'clock to 16 o'clock which corresponds tomealtime, because the comings and goings of guests are frequent and aheat load from a kitchen is increased. Furthermore, since it isconceivable that the load might be increased to a certain extent duringtime periods prior to and subsequent to the mealtime, the temperatureuniformization mode or the spot air conditioning mode is selected as theoperational air conditioning mode for each of these time periods. It isalso conceivable that during the other time periods, there are nocomings and goings of guests or only a few guests, if any, come and go,and the load from the kitchen is small; therefore, the spot airconditioning mode is selected as the operational air conditioning modefor each of the other time periods. In other words, the schedule timerallows the switching of the operational air conditioning mode to becarried out automatically with time (elapse of time) by associatingvariations in the level of a load applied to the premises, i.e., spaceto be air-conditioned W, with the time periods of a day. Accordingly,the control after the selection of the operational air conditioning modeis carried out as in the first exemplary control.

[0247] As illustrated in the flow charts in FIGS. 17 and 18, first,“automatic operation” is selected as an operation mode after the startof the control (step S1), and then the radiation temperatures of theareas (1) through (4) are sequentially detected using the infraredsensors 15, 15, . . . (step S2). Then, based on the detected values forthe areas (1) through (4), the temperature distribution in the overallspace to be air-conditioned W is calculated, and the position of a humanbody in each of the areas (1) through (4) (i.e., a high temperatureregion in each area) is determined (step S3). Furthermore, at this time,a manipulation signal for cooling operation or heating operation isinputted, thus allowing the air conditioning apparatus to performcooling operation or heating operation (step S4).

[0248] Subsequently, it is determined in step S5 whether or not the spotair conditioning mode is set in the schedule timer for the time periodcorresponding to the present time. In this step, if it is determinedthat the present time period corresponds to the time period for whichthe temperature uniformization mode is set, the process of the controlgoes to the execution of the temperature uniformization mode (step S6).On the other hand, if it is determined that the present time periodcorresponds to the time period for which the spot air conditioning modeis set, the process goes to the execution of the spot air conditioningmode (step S14).

[0249] When the operational air conditioning mode has been switched tothe temperature uniformization mode, the operational mode of the airflow changing means 52 is first determined in order to uniformize theroom temperature. To be more specific, in step S7, the ratio of airquantities from the outlets 4, 4, . . . of the indoor unit Z (i.e., theratio of opening areas in the outlets 4, 4, . . . adjusted by the airquantity distribution mechanisms 10, 10, . . . ) is calculated, and theoperational modes of the first flaps 12, 12, . . . and the second flaps13, 13, . . . are each set at “swing”. In this step, the operationalmodes of all the first flaps 12 and second flaps 13 are each set at“swing” because it is necessary to discharge conditioned air evenly to awider range of the room from the outlets 4, 4, . . . .

[0250] Based on each setting made in step S7, the ratio of airquantities, lateral wind direction, and longitudinal wind direction areadjusted (step S8).

[0251] Next, the process goes to the control of the capacity of theindoor unit Z in the temperature uniformization mode. To require theindoor unit Z to provide a capacity more than necessary is undesirablefrom the standpoint of ensuring energy conservation. Therefore, if theindoor unit Z provides an excessive capacity, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled so that its capacity is reduced, and if the indoor unit Zprovides an insufficient capacity, the indoor unit Z is controlled sothat its capacity is increased. Specifically, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled as follows.

[0252] First, the load level in the overall space to be air-conditionedW is determined in step S9. To be more specific, when cooling operationis currently performed, it is determined whether the average temperatureTm of all the areas (1) through (4) inside the room is lower than, equalto or higher than 26° C., and when heating operation is currentlyperformed, it is determined whether the average temperature Tm of allthe areas (1) through (4) is lower than, equal to or higher than 23° C.It should be noted that the average temperature is determined by theaverage of the radiation temperatures of the areas (1) through (4)detected by the infrared sensor 15.

[0253] In this step, if it is determined that the load level is high(i.e., if the average temperature Tm is higher than 26° C. duringcooling operation, or if the average temperature Tm is lower than 23° C.during heating operation), the process goes to automatic capacitycontrol that is carried out based on a set temperature Ts (step S10). Tothe contrary, if it is determined that the load level is low (i.e., ifthe average temperature Tm is equal to or lower than 26° C. duringcooling operation, or if the average temperature Tm is equal to orhigher than 23° C. during heating operation), the process goes toautomatic capacity control that is carried out based on a recommendableset temperature Tss (step S11).

[0254] First, in carrying out the automatic capacity control based onthe set temperature Ts, a comparison is made between the current averagetemperature Tm and the set temperature Ts in step S10. In this step,when the average temperature Tm is equal to or lower than the settemperature Ts during cooling operation, or when the average temperatureTm is equal to or higher than the set temperature Ts during heatingoperation, it is determined that air conditioning capacity is excessive.In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity isreduced, for example, by reducing the number of rotations of acompressor and reducing the number of rotations of the fan 6 of theindoor unit Z (step S13).

[0255] To the contrary, when the average temperature Tm is higher thanthe set temperature Ts during cooling operation, or when the averagetemperature Tm is lower than the set temperature Ts during heatingoperation, it is determined that air conditioning capacity isinsufficient. In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that itscapacity is increased, for example, by increasing the number ofrotations of a compressor and increasing the number of rotations of thefan 6 (step S12).

[0256] On the other hand, in carrying out the automatic capacity controlbased on the recommendable set temperature Tss, first, a comparison ismade between the current average temperature Tm and the recommendableset temperature Tss in step S11. In this step, when the averagetemperature Tm is equal to or lower than the recommendable settemperature Tss during cooling operation, or when the averagetemperature Tm is equal to or higher than the recommendable settemperature Tss during heating operation, it is determined that airconditioning capacity is excessive. In this case, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled so that its capacity is reduced (step S13). To the contrary,when the average temperature Tm is higher than the recommendable settemperature Tss during cooling operation, or when the averagetemperature Tm is lower than the recommendable set temperature Tssduring heating operation, it is determined that air conditioningcapacity is insufficient. In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlledso that its capacity is increased (step S12).

[0257] The above-described operation and automatic capacity control inthe temperature uniformization mode are repeatedly carried out as longas the requirements for the execution of the temperature uniformizationmode are met.

[0258] On the other hand, if the answer is NO in step S5 (i.e., if it isdetermined that there exist, among all the areas (1) through (4), atleast one or more of the areas without the presence of people), theprocess goes to the execution of the spot air conditioning mode (stepS14).

[0259] After the operational air conditioning mode has been switched tothe spot air conditioning mode, first, the number of people present ineach of the areas (1) through (4) is calculated in step S15. Then, inorder to realize the optimum spot air conditioning for each of the areas(1) through (4) in accordance with the number of people present in eachof the areas (1) through (4), the required operational modes of the airflow changing means 52 provided in the outlets 4, 4, . . . , eachassociated with the corresponding one of the areas (1) through (4), aredetermined.

[0260] For the area with the presence of only one person, the ratio ofair quantities is set at “large”, and the lateral wind direction andlongitudinal wind direction (i.e., the operational modes of the firstflaps 12 and the second flaps 13) are determined so as to direct thedischarge of conditioned air toward the position of a human body (step16).

[0261] In addition, for the area without the presence of a person, sincethis area does not need air conditioning itself, the ratio of airquantities is fixed at “small” and the lateral wind direction andlongitudinal wind direction are both fixed (step S17).

[0262] Furthermore, the area with the presence of a plurality of peoplemost needs air conditioning and requires uniform air conditioning of theentire area. Therefore, for this area, the ratio of air quantities isset at “large”; in addition, to determine each discharge direction ofconditioned air, the operational modes of the flaps for changing thelateral wind direction are each set at “swing”, and the operationalmodes of the flaps for changing the longitudinal wind direction are eachdetermined in accordance with the position of a human body (step S18).

[0263] Based on the settings made in steps S16 through S18, the ratio ofair quantities, lateral wind direction, and longitudinal wind directionare adjusted (step S19).

[0264] Next, the process goes to the control of the capacity of theindoor unit Z in the spot air conditioning mode. Also in the spot airconditioning mode, to require the indoor unit Z to provide a capacitymore than necessary is undesirable from the standpoint of ensuringenergy conservation, as in the above-described temperatureuniformization mode. Therefore, if the indoor unit Z provides anexcessive capacity, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacityis reduced, and if the indoor unit Z provides an insufficient capacity,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is increased.Specifically, the indoor unit Z is controlled as follows.

[0265] First, in step S20, the infrared sensor 15 carries out detectionfor each of the areas (1) through (4) of the space to be air-conditionedW again, and the temperature distribution and human body position in theoverall space to be air-conditioned W are determined based on pieces ofthe detected information (step 21).

[0266] Next, in step S22, the load level in the overall space to beair-conditioned W is determined. Specifically, if cooling operation iscurrently performed, it is determined whether the average temperature Tmof all the areas (1) through (4) inside the room is lower than, equal toor higher than 26° C., and if heating operation is currently performed,it is determined whether the average temperature Tm of all the areas (1)through (4) is lower than, equal to or higher than 23° C.

[0267] If it is determined that the load level is high (i.e., if theaverage temperature Tm is higher than 26° C. during cooling operation,or if the average temperature Tm is lower than 23° C. during heatingoperation), the process goes to automatic capacity control that iscarried out based on a set temperature Ts (step S23). To the contrary,if it is determined that the load level is low (i.e., if the averagetemperature Tm is equal to or lower than 26° C. during coolingoperation, or if the average temperature Tm is equal to or higher than23° C. during heating operation), the process goes to automatic capacitycontrol that is carried out based on a recommendable set temperature Tss(step S24).

[0268] First, in carrying out the automatic capacity control based onthe set temperature Ts, a comparison is made between the current humanbody ambient temperature Tp and the set temperature Ts in step S23. Inthis step, when the human body ambient temperature Tp is equal to orlower than the set temperature Ts during cooling operation, or when thehuman body ambient temperature Tp is equal to or higher than the settemperature Ts during heating operation, it is determined that airconditioning capacity is excessive. In this case, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled so that its capacity is reduced (step S13).

[0269] To the contrary, when the human body ambient temperature Tp ishigher than the set temperature Ts during cooling operation, or when thehuman body ambient temperature Tp is lower than the set temperature Tsduring heating operation, it is determined that air conditioningcapacity is insufficient. In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlledso that its capacity is increased (step S12).

[0270] Furthermore, when a difference between the average temperature Tmand the set temperature Ts is greater than a predetermined temperatureα° C. during cooling operation, or when a difference between the settemperature Ts and the average temperature Tm is greater than apredetermined temperature α° C. during heating operation, it is deemedthat the capacity control is unnecessary, and the process of the controlis returned (step S23 step S6).

[0271] On the other hand, in carrying out the automatic capacity controlbased on the recommendable set temperature Tss, a comparison is madebetween the current human body ambient temperature Tp and therecommendable set temperature Tss in step S24. In this step, when thehuman body ambient temperature Tp is equal to or lower than therecommendable set temperature Tss during cooling operation, or when thehuman body ambient temperature Tp is equal to or higher than therecommendable set temperature Tss during heating operation, it isdetermined that air conditioning capacity is excessive. In this case,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is reduced (stepS13).

[0272] To the contrary, when the human body ambient temperature Tp ishigher than the recommendable set temperature Tss during coolingoperation, or when the human body ambient temperature Tp is lower thanthe recommendable set temperature Tss during heating operation, it isdetermined that air conditioning capacity is insufficient. In this case,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is increased (stepS12).

[0273] Furthermore, when a difference between the average temperature Tmand the set temperature Ts is greater than a predetermined temperatureβ° C. during cooling operation, or when a difference between the settemperature Ts and the average temperature Tm is greater than apredetermined temperature β° C. during heating operation, it is deemedthat the capacity control is unnecessary, and the process of the controlis returned (step S24→step S6).

[0274] The above-described operation and automatic capacity control inthe spot air conditioning mode are repeatedly carried out as long as therequirements for the execution of the spot air conditioning mode aremet.

(d-5) Fifth Exemplary Control (see FIGS. 19 and 20)

[0275] The fifth exemplary control is targeted for the indoor unit Zaccording to the second embodiment (i.e., the indoor unit formed toinclude, as the detection means 51, the infrared sensor 15 and thetemperature and humidity sensor 16). In the fifth exemplary control, thecontrol over switching of the operational air conditioning mode betweenthe temperature uniformization mode and the spot air conditioning modeis automatically carried out based on whether the load level in theoverall space to be air-conditioned W is high or low. Furthermore, thisexemplary control differs from the other exemplary control in that eachradiation temperature detected by the infrared sensor 15 is not employedas it is when determining the average temperature Tm of the space to beair-conditioned W, which serves as the criterion for determining theautomatic capacity control. In the fifth exemplary control, valuesdetected by the infrared sensor 15 and values detected by thetemperature and humidity sensor 16 are each assigned a predeterminedweight to determine a value that more precisely indicates thetemperature environment of the space to be air-conditioned W, and thisvalue is employed as the measurement temperature of the space to beair-conditioned W, thus making it possible to further promote thecomfort of air conditioning and energy conservation.

[0276] Specifically, as illustrated in the flow charts in FIGS. 19 and20, first, “automatic operation” is selected as an operation mode afterthe start of the control (step S1), and then the process of the controlgoes to step S2.

[0277] Next, in step S2, the radiation temperature and high temperatureregion (i.e., human body position) of each of the areas (1) through (4)are detected by the infrared sensor 15, and the temperature of an intakeair from each of the areas (1) through (4) is detected by the associatedtemperature and humidity sensors 16, 16, . . . . Then, based on piecesof the detected information, the temperature distribution and human bodyposition, for example, in the overall space to be air-conditioned W aredetermined (step S3).

[0278] Thereafter, in step S4, an operation signal for cooling operationor heating operation is inputted, and the air conditioning apparatus isallowed to start cooling operation or heating operation in response tothe inputted signal (step S4).

[0279] Subsequently, in step S5, the load level in the overall space tobe air-conditioned W is determined, and the determination result isemployed as the criterion for switching the operational air conditioningmode. It should be noted that the load level in the overall space to beair-conditioned W is determined by making a comparison between theaverage temperature Tm of the overall space to be air-conditioned W andreference temperature. Furthermore, the average temperature Tm isdetermined by the average of the radiation temperatures of the areas (1)through (4) detected by the infrared sensor 15.

[0280] Specifically, in step S5, when cooling operation is performed, itis determined whether the average temperature Tm is lower than, equal toor higher than 26° C., and when heating operation is performed, it isdetermined whether the average temperature Tm is lower than, equal to orhigher than 23° C. More specifically, when it is determined that theaverage temperature Tm is higher than 26° C. during cooling operation,or when it is determined that the average temperature Tm is higher than23° C. during heating operation, the process goes to the execution ofthe temperature uniformization mode (step S6). To the contrary, when itis determined that the average temperature Tm is equal to or lower than26° C. during cooling operation, or when it is determined that theaverage temperature Tm is equal to or lower than 23° C. during heatingoperation, the process goes to the execution of the spot airconditioning mode (step S15).

[0281] In the former case, the average temperature Tm in the space to beair-conditioned W is high, i.e., a lot of people are present in thespace to be air-conditioned W, and therefore, there is a great need forthe uniformization of the temperature of the overall space to beair-conditioned W. To the contrary, in the latter case, the averagetemperature Tm in the space to be air-conditioned W is low, i.e., only afew people are present in the space to be air-conditioned W. Therefore,it is more economical to provide spot air conditioning to thesurroundings of people than to provide air conditioning to the overallspace to be air-conditioned W.

[0282] After the operational air conditioning mode has been switched tothe temperature uniformization mode (step S6), first, the averagetemperature Tm of the overall space to be air-conditioned W is weightedto carry out temperature correction. Normally, employed as the averagetemperature Tm is either an average radiation temperature Tir determinedbased on information detected by the infrared sensor 15, or an averageintake air temperature Ta determined based on information detected bythe temperature and humidity sensor 16. However, the temperatureuniformization mode is not targeted for air conditioning of each humanbody itself but targeted for air conditioning of the overall space to beair-conditioned W so that the temperature thereof becomes uniform;therefore, it is preferable that the average temperature Tm iscalculated with weight placed on the average intake air temperature Tarather than the average radiation temperature Tir that is more likely tovary with the presence of a human body.

[0283] In consideration of the above-described points, in this exemplarycontrol, a weight factor for the average intake air temperature Ta is(0.5˜1) and a weight factor for the average radiation temperature Tir is(0.5˜0) so that a corrected average temperature Tm′ is determined by thefollowing equation, Tm′=(0.5˜1) Ta +(0.5˜0) Tir. The corrected averagetemperature Tm′ is employed as the measurement temperature of the spaceto be air-conditioned W and is reflected in the automatic capacitycontrol described below.

[0284] Next, in step S8, the ratio of air quantities from the outlets 4,4, . . . of the indoor unit Z (i.e., the ratio of opening areas in theoutlets 4, 4, . . . adjusted by the air quantity distribution mechanisms10, 10, . . . ) is calculated, and furthermore, the operational modes ofthe first flaps 12, 12, . . . and the second flaps 13, 13, . . . areeach set at “swing”. In this step, the operational modes of all thefirst flaps 12 and second flaps 13 are each set at “swing” because it isnecessary to discharge conditioned air evenly to a wider range of theroom from the outlets 4, 4, . . . .

[0285] Based on each setting made in step S7, the ratio of airquantities, lateral wind direction, and longitudinal wind direction areadjusted (step S9).

[0286] Thereafter, the process goes to the control of the capacity ofthe indoor unit Z in the temperature uniformization mode. To require theindoor unit Z to provide a capacity more than necessary is undesirablefrom the standpoint of ensuring energy conservation. Therefore, if theindoor unit Z provides an excessive capacity, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled so that its capacity is reduced, and if the indoor unit Zprovides an insufficient capacity, the indoor unit Z is controlled sothat its capacity is increased. Specifically, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled as follows.

[0287] First, it is determined in step S10 whether the operation mode ofthe main unit of the air conditioning apparatus is a cooling mode or aheating mode. If the operation mode is the cooling mode, the processgoes to automatic capacity control that is carried out based on a settemperature (step 11), and if the operation mode is the heating mode,the process goes to automatic capacity control that is carried out basedon a recommendable set temperature (step S12). In step S10, theselection of the mode of the automatic capacity control is carried outbased on the operation mode of the main unit because of the followingreasons. The average temperature Tm of the space to be air-conditioned Wis high in the temperature uniformization mode; therefore, airconditioning is preferably performed at the set temperature duringcooling operation since the load level is high, while air conditioningis preferably performed at the recommendable set temperature duringheating operation since the load level is low.

[0288] In carrying out the automatic capacity control based on the settemperature, first, a comparison is made between the corrected averagetemperature Tm′ and the set temperature Ts in step S11. In this step,when the corrected average temperature Tm′ is equal to or lower than theset temperature Ts, it is determined that air conditioning capacity isexcessive. In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that itscapacity is reduced, for example, by reducing the number of rotations ofa compressor and reducing the number of rotations of the fan 6 of theindoor unit Z (step S14).

[0289] To the contrary, when the corrected average temperature Tm′ ishigher than the set temperature Ts, it is determined that airconditioning capacity is insufficient. In this case, the indoor unit Zis controlled so that its capacity is increased, for example, byincreasing the number of rotations of a compressor and increasing thenumber of rotations of the fan 6 (step S13).

[0290] On the other hand, in carrying out the automatic capacity controlbased on the recommendable set temperature Tss, first, a comparison ismade between the current corrected average temperature Tm′ and therecommendable set temperature Tss in step S12. Then, when the correctedaverage temperature Tm′ is equal to or higher than the recommendable settemperature Tss, it is determined that air conditioning capacity isexcessive. In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that itscapacity is reduced (step S14). To the contrary, when the correctedaverage temperature Tm′ is lower than the recommendable set temperatureTss, it is determined that air conditioning capacity is insufficient. Inthis case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity isincreased (step S13).

[0291] The above-described operation and automatic capacity control inthe temperature uniformization mode are repeatedly carried out as longas the requirements for the execution of the temperature uniformizationmode are met.

[0292] On the other hand, if the spot air conditioning mode has beenselected in step S5, the process goes to the execution of the spot airconditioning mode (step S15).

[0293] After the operational air conditioning mode has been switched tothe spot air conditioning mode, first, the average temperature Tm of theoverall space to be air-conditioned W and human body ambient temperatureTp are each weighted to carry out temperature correction. Normally,employed as the average temperature Tm is either an average radiationtemperature Tir determined based on information detected by the infraredsensor 15, or an average intake air temperature Ta determined based oninformation detected by the temperature and humidity sensor 16. However,the spot air conditioning mode is not targeted for air conditioning ofthe overall space to be air-conditioned W but targeted for airconditioning of the surroundings of each human body present in thespace; therefore, it is preferable that the average temperature Tm iscalculated with weight placed on, rather than the average intake airtemperature Ta, the average radiation temperature Tir that is morelikely to vary with the presence of a human body.

[0294] In consideration of the above-described points, in this exemplarycontrol, as for a corrected average temperature Tm′, a weight factor forthe average intake air temperature Ta is (0.5˜0) and a weight factor forthe average radiation temperature Tir is (0.5˜1) so that the correctedaverage temperature Tm′ is determined by the following equation,Tm′=(0.5˜0) Ta+(0.5˜1) Tir. On the other hand, as for a corrected humanbody ambient temperature Tp′, a weight factor for the average intake airtemperature Tae of a predetermined area is (0.5˜0) and a weight factorfor the average radiation temperature Tire of the predetermined area is(0.5˜1) so that the corrected human body ambient temperature Tp′ isdetermined by the following equation, Tp′=(0.5˜0) Tae+(0.5˜1) Tire.Furthermore, the corrected values are each employed as the measurementtemperature of the space to be air-conditioned W and reflected in theautomatic capacity control described below.

[0295] Next, the number of people present in each of the areas (1)through (4) is calculated in step S17. In order to realize the optimumspot air conditioning for each of the areas (1) through (4) inaccordance with the number of people present in each of the areas (1)through (4), the required operational modes of the air flow changingmeans 52 provided in the outlets 4, 4, . . . , each associated with thecorresponding one of the areas (1) through (4), are determined.

[0296] Specifically, for the area with the presence of only one person,the ratio of air quantities is set at “large”, and the lateral winddirection and longitudinal wind direction (i.e., the operational modesof the first flaps 12 and the second flaps 13) are determined so as todirect the discharge of conditioned air toward the position of a humanbody (step 18).

[0297] Besides, for the area without the presence of a person, sincethis area does not need air conditioning itself, the ratio of airquantities is fixed at “small” and the lateral wind direction andlongitudinal wind direction are both fixed (step S19).

[0298] Furthermore, the area with the presence of a plurality of peoplemost needs air conditioning and requires uniform air conditioning of theentire area. Therefore, for this area, the ratio of air quantities isset at “large”; in addition, to determine each discharge direction ofconditioned air, the operational modes of the flaps for changing thelateral wind direction are each set at “swing”, and the operationalmodes of the flaps for changing the longitudinal wind direction are eachdetermined in accordance with the position of a human body (step S20).

[0299] Based on the settings made in steps S18 through S20, the ratio ofair quantities, lateral wind direction, and longitudinal wind directionare adjusted (step S21).

[0300] Next, the process goes to the control of the capacity of theindoor unit Z in the spot air conditioning mode. Also in the spot airconditioning mode, to require the indoor unit Z to provide a capacitymore than necessary is undesirable from the standpoint of ensuringenergy conservation, as in the above-described temperatureuniformization mode. Therefore, if the indoor unit Z provides anexcessive capacity, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacityis reduced, and if the indoor unit Z provides an insufficient capacity,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is increased.Furthermore, if the states of the excessive capacity and insufficientcapacity are within a predetermined range and are too negligible tocarry out control, the process of the control is returned withoutcarrying out any capacity control. Specifically, the following steps areperformed.

[0301] First, in step S22, the infrared sensor 15 and the temperatureand humidity sensor 16 carry out detection for each of the areas (1)through (4) of the space to be air-conditioned W again, and then thetemperature distribution and human body position in the overall space tobe air-conditioned W are determined based on pieces of the detectedinformation (step 23).

[0302] Next, in step S24, the load level in the overall space to beair-conditioned W is determined. To be more specific, if coolingoperation is currently performed, it is determined whether the averagetemperature Tm of all the areas (1) through (4) inside the room is lowerthan, equal to or higher than 26° C. On the other hand, if heatingoperation is currently performed, it is determined whether the averagetemperature Tm is in the range of 18° C. to 23° C. or lower than 18° C.

[0303] If it is determined that the load level is high (i.e., if theaverage temperature Tm is higher than 26° C. during cooling operation,or if the average temperature Tm is lower than 18° C. during heatingoperation), the process goes to automatic capacity control that iscarried out based on a set temperature Ts (step S25). To the contrary,if it is determined that the load level is low (i.e., if the averagetemperature Tm is equal to or lower than 26° C. during coolingoperation, or if the average temperature Tm is in the rage of 18° C. to23° C. during heating operation), the process goes to automatic capacitycontrol that is carried out based on a recommendable set temperature Tss(step S26).

[0304] First, in carrying out the automatic capacity control based onthe set temperature Ts, a comparison is made between the currentcorrected human body ambient temperature Tp′ and the set temperature Tsin step S25. In this step, when the corrected human body ambienttemperature Tp′ is equal to or lower than the set temperature Ts duringcooling operation, or when the corrected human body ambient temperatureTp′ is equal to or higher than the set temperature Ts during heatingoperation, it is determined that air conditioning capacity is excessive.In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity isreduced (step S14).

[0305] To the contrary, when the corrected human body ambienttemperature Tp′ is higher than the set temperature Ts during coolingoperation, or when the corrected human body ambient temperature Tp′ islower than the set temperature Ts during heating operation, it isdetermined that air conditioning capacity is insufficient. In this case,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is increased (stepS13).

[0306] Furthermore, when a difference between the corrected averagetemperature Tm′and the set temperature Ts is greater than apredetermined temperature α° C. during cooling operation, or when adifference between the set temperature Ts and the corrected averagetemperature Tm′ is greater than a predetermined temperature α° C. duringheating operation, it is deemed that the capacity control isunnecessary, and the process of the control is returned (step S25→stepS6).

[0307] On the other hand, in carrying out the automatic capacity controlbased on the recommendable set temperature Tss, a comparison is madebetween the current corrected human body ambient temperature Tp′ and therecommendable set temperature Tss in step S24. In this step, when thecorrected human body ambient temperature Tp′ is equal to or lower thanthe recommendable set temperature Tss during cooling operation, or whenthe corrected human body ambient temperature Tp′ is equal to or higherthan the recommendable set temperature Tss during heating operation, itis determined that air conditioning capacity is excessive. In this case,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is reduced (stepS14).

[0308] To the contrary, when the corrected human body ambienttemperature Tp′ is higher than the recommendable set temperature Tssduring cooling operation, or when the corrected human body ambienttemperature Tp′ is lower than the recommendable set temperature Tssduring heating operation, it is determined that air conditioningcapacity is insufficient. In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlledso that its capacity is increased (step S13).

[0309] Furthermore, when a difference between the corrected averagetemperature Tm′ and the set temperature Ts is greater than apredetermined temperature β° C. during cooling operation, or when adifference between the set temperature Ts and the corrected averagetemperature Tm′ is greater than a predetermined temperature β° C. duringheating operation, it is deemed that the capacity control isunnecessary, and the process of the control is returned (step S26→stepS6).

[0310] The above-described operation and automatic capacity control inthe spot air conditioning mode are repeatedly carried out as long as therequirements for the execution of the spot air conditioning mode aremet.

Industrial Applicability

[0311] As described above, the air conditioning apparatus according tothe present invention is not only useful as an air conditioningapparatus of the type in which its indoor unit is embedded in a ceilingor hung from a ceiling, but also particularly suitable for airconditioning of a relatively large space.

1. An air conditioning apparatus comprising: an indoor panel (2) that isdisposed at the bottom side of a ceiling (50), and is provided with aninlet (3) and a plurality of outlets (4, 4, . . . ) rectangularlysurrounding the periphery of the inlet (3); detection means (51)comprising an infrared sensor (15) for detecting as a radiationtemperature the temperature of an object in a space to beair-conditioned (W); air flow changing means (52) for changing thecharacteristic of an air flow discharged from each of the outlets (4, 4,. . . ); and control means (53) for controlling the operation of the airflow changing means (52) based on detection information detected by thedetection means (51) and operation information concerning the operationof the air conditioning apparatus, wherein an operational airconditioning mode of the air conditioning apparatus is selectivelyswitched between a temperature uniformization mode in which temperaturedistribution in the space to be air-conditioned (W) is uniformized, anda spot air conditioning mode in which the surroundings of a human body(M) present in the space to be air-conditioned (W) are intensivelyair-conditioned, the operational air conditioning mode being switchedautomatically by the control means (53) or manually.
 2. The airconditioning apparatus of claim 1, wherein the operational airconditioning mode is switched automatically by the control means (53),and wherein the space to be air-conditioned (W) is divided into aplurality of areas, and the operational air conditioning mode is set tothe temperature uniformization mode when it is detected by the detectionmeans (51) that the percentage of the area with the presence of a humanbody (M) to the plurality of areas is above a predetermined level, whilethe operational air conditioning mode is set to the spot airconditioning mode when it is detected by the detection means (51) thatthe percentage is below the predetermined level.
 3. The air conditioningapparatus of claim 1, wherein the operational air conditioning mode isswitched automatically by the control means (53), and wherein theoperational air conditioning mode is switched to the temperatureuniformization mode when it is detected by the detection means (51) thatthe level of a load applied to the overall space to be air-conditioned(W) is above a predetermined level, while the operational airconditioning mode is switched to the spot air conditioning mode when itis detected by the detection means (51) that the load level is below thepredetermined level.
 4. The air conditioning apparatus of claim 1,wherein the operational air conditioning mode is continuously set to thetemperature uniformization mode during a predetermined time periodsubsequent to the start of air conditioning operation or the switchingof the operational air conditioning mode, and after the predeterminedtime period has been elapsed, the control over the switching of theoperational air conditioning mode is carried out based on the detectioninformation detected by the detection means (51).
 5. The airconditioning apparatus of claim 1, wherein the switching of theoperational air conditioning mode is executed based on each time periodof a day.
 6. The air conditioning apparatus of claim 1, wherein thecontrol of air conditioning capacity is carried out based on thetemperature of radiation emitted from an object in a predetermined areawhich is detected by the detection means (51), and a set temperaturethat has been set in advance.
 7. The air conditioning apparatus of claim6, wherein a recommendable set temperature is used instead of the settemperature depending on the load level detected by the detection means(51).
 8. The air conditioning apparatus of claim 1, wherein thedetection means (51) further comprises, in addition to the infraredsensor (15), a temperature and humidity sensor (16) for detecting thetemperature of an intake air taken into the inlet (3).
 9. The airconditioning apparatus of claim 8, wherein the infrared sensor (15) isformed to detect the position of a human body in the space to beair-conditioned (W), and wherein the temperature and humidity sensor(16) is formed to detect the temperature of an intake air.
 10. The airconditioning apparatus of claim 9, wherein a plurality of thetemperature and humidity sensors (16) are provided so that eachtemperature and humidity sensor (16) detects the temperature of anintake air from an associated one of the areas of the space to beair-conditioned (W), wherein the radiation temperature from each of theareas detected by the infrared sensor (15) and the intake airtemperature from each of the areas detected by the associated one of thetemperature and humidity sensors (16, 16, . . . ) are each assigned apredetermined weight and are summed to determine the measurementtemperature of each of the areas, and wherein the weight assignment tothe radiation temperature and the intake air temperature are made suchthat the weight assigned to the intake air temperature is increased inthe temperature uniformization mode, and the weight assigned to theradiation temperature is increased in the spot air conditioning mode.11. The air conditioning apparatus of claim 1, wherein the air flowchanging means (52) comprises: an air quantity distribution mechanism(10) for changing the ratio of distribution of air quantities dischargedfrom the outlets (4, 4, . . . ); a first flap (12) for changing thelateral discharge direction of an air flow discharged from theassociated outlet (4); and a second flap (13) for changing thelongitudinal discharge direction of the air flow discharged from theassociated outlet (4), and wherein the air quantity distributionmechanism (10), the first flap (12) and the second flap (13) associatedwith each of the outlets (4, 4, . . . ) are formed so that they areoperable independently and separately from their counterparts.
 12. Theair conditioning apparatus of claim 1, wherein the air flow changingmeans (52) comprises: an air quantity distribution mechanism (10) forchanging the ratio of distribution of air quantities discharged from theoutlets (4, 4, . . . ); a first flap (12) for changing the lateraldischarge direction of an air flow discharged from the associated outlet(4); and a second flap (13) for changing the longitudinal dischargedirection of the air flow discharged from the associated outlet (4),wherein the air quantity distribution mechanism (10) and the first flap(12) associated with each of the outlets (4, 4, . . . ) are formed sothat they are operable independently and separately from theircounterparts, and wherein the second flap (13) associated with each theoutlets (4, 4, . . . ) is formed to operate together with itscounterpart.
 13. The air conditioning apparatus of claim 11 or 12,wherein the air quantity distribution mechanism (10) and the first flap(12) are each provided in an upstream region of a discharge duct (14)continuous with the outlet (4), and wherein a driving mechanism (29) forthe air quantity distribution mechanism (10) and a driving mechanism(30) for the first flap (12) are provided at respective longitudinalends of the discharge duct (14).
 14. The air conditioning apparatus ofclaim 13, wherein the air quantity distribution mechanism (10) comprisesa distribution shutter (11) attached so that the shutter (11) is allowedto assume a position adjacent to a side wall of the discharge duct (14)extending in a longitudinal direction thereof, and to tilt toward aninward region of the discharge duct (14), and wherein the distributionshutter (11) is formed to assume a position adjacent to thelongitudinally extending side wall of the discharge duct (14) when thearea of an opening of the discharge duct (14) is increased, and toassume a position at an upstream side region of the discharge duct (14)when the area of the opening is reduced.